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1 best florida small ship cruises for 2024-2025, insider tip for sailing enthusiast, united states travel guide.

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Mini Cruises from Fort Lauderdale

Embark on a mini cruise adventure from fort lauderdale.

Fort Lauderdale is Ideal for a Short Cruise

Mini cruises from Fort Lauderdale represent the quintessence of a quick getaway, presenting a condensed Caribbean experience that revitalizes without demanding extensive vacation time. With varying seasonal conditions, it’s wise to consult the Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port Guide for the best times to travel. These short voyages cater to all, from thrill-seekers to those in pursuit of tranquility, ensuring a memorable retreat. To fully enjoy your , consider engaging in onboard amenities and exploring each port’s local attractions, which will enhance your Caribbean journey.

Cruise Lines Offering Mini Cruises

Fort Lauderdale’s mini cruises are serviced by premier cruise lines, each promising an unmatched experience.

• Celebrity Cruises : Known for its modern luxury, Celebrity Cruises offers a refined experience with exceptional dining and service.
• Disney Cruise Line : Perfect for families, Disney Cruise Line brings beloved characters and magical moments to life at sea.
• Holland America Line : With a focus on classic cruising and culinary excellence, Holland America Line ensures enriching experiences.
• Princess Cruises : Princess Cruises combines relaxed elegance with innovative amenities for a serene journey.
• Royal Caribbean : For an action-packed adventure, Royal Caribbean boasts thrilling activities and diverse dining.
• Viking Cruises : For those seeking cultural immersion, Viking Cruises provides scenic cruising with a focus on destination exploration.

Popular Ports on Mini Cruises from Fort Lauderdale

Embarking on a from Fort Lauderdale offers the perfect opportunity to delve into the Caribbean’s most captivating destinations. From the sun-soaked Bahamas to the rich history of the Eastern and Western Caribbean, these cruises provide a gateway to diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable experiences.

Discover the Bahamas ‘ allure, where each island weaves a unique tapestry of adventure and serenity, promising an idyllic retreat on your :

• Nassau : Dive into the vibrant culture and bustling markets, where history and modernity blend seamlessly.
• Half Moon Cay : Revel in pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for a tranquil day under the sun.
• Castaway Cay : Disney’s private island enchants with exclusive activities and family-friendly relaxation.
• CocoCay : Royal Caribbean’s private island offers thrilling water parks and peaceful beach hideaways.
• Bimini : Escape to tranquil waters and explore the rich marine life that makes Bimini a diver’s paradise.
• Lighthouse Point : Experience untouched natural beauty and serene beaches at this upcoming destination.

Eastern Caribbean

Set sail to the Eastern Caribbean , where islands rich in history and natural beauty await:

• Labadee : Royal Caribbean’s private resort offers adrenaline-pumping activities and serene beach relaxation.
• Amber Cove : Immerse in Dominican charm with lush landscapes and cultural explorations in Puerto Plata.
• Puerto Plata : Discover vibrant history, stunning architecture, and inviting beaches in this Dominican gem.

Key West : A crossroads for both Bahamas and Western Caribbean cruises, Key West charms with its laid-back atmosphere, historic sites, and vibrant marine life.

Western Caribbean

Embark on a journey to the Western Caribbean , a region filled with ancient wonders and natural beauty.

• George Town : The capital of Grand Cayman offers luxurious shopping, stunning beaches, and world-class diving spots.
• Cozumel : Renowned for its coral reefs, Cozumel is a haven for snorkelers and divers seeking underwater adventures.
• Costa Maya : Dive into the heart of Mayan culture, with access to ancient ruins and unspoiled natural reserves.

Each port of call on your Fort Lauderdale presents a world of discovery, inviting you to experience the best of the Caribbean, whether you’re lounging on sun-kissed beaches, exploring historical sites, or indulging in local cuisines.

Mini Cruises out of the Fort Lauderdale Schedule

Celebrity Silhouette, Key West & Nassau from Fort Lauderdale, February 28, 2025

3-day Bahamas cruise on board Celebrity Cruises Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: February 28, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Celebrity Cruises; Cruise Ship: Celebrity Silhouette; Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Key West, Nassau, Fort Lauderdale; Enjoy[…]

Royal Caribbean, Nassau & CocoCay from Fort Lauderdale, February 28, 2025

3-day Bahamas mini cruise on board Liberty of the Seas Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: February 28, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Liberty of the Seas; Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Nassau,[…]

Royal Caribbean, Nassau & CocoCay from Fort Lauderdale, February 24, 2025

4-day Bahamas mini cruise on board Liberty of the Seas Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: February 24, 2025; Duration: 4-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Liberty of the Seas; Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Nassau,[…]

Celebrity Silhouette, Key West & Nassau from Fort Lauderdale, February 21, 2025

3-day Bahamas cruise on board Celebrity Cruises Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: February 21, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Celebrity Cruises; Cruise Ship: Celebrity Silhouette; Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Key West, Nassau, Fort Lauderdale; Enjoy[…]

Royal Caribbean, Nassau & CocoCay from Fort Lauderdale, February 21, 2025

3-day Bahamas mini cruise on board Liberty of the Seas Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: February 21, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Liberty of the Seas; Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Nassau,[…]

Royal Caribbean, Nassau & CocoCay from Fort Lauderdale, February 17, 2025

4-day Bahamas mini cruise on board Liberty of the Seas Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: February 17, 2025; Duration: 4-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Liberty of the Seas; Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Nassau,[…]

Celebrity Silhouette, Key West & Nassau from Fort Lauderdale, February 14, 2025

3-day Bahamas cruise on board Celebrity Cruises Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: February 14, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Celebrity Cruises; Cruise Ship: Celebrity Silhouette; Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Key West, Nassau, Fort Lauderdale; Enjoy[…]

Royal Caribbean, Nassau & CocoCay from Fort Lauderdale, February 14, 2025

3-day Bahamas mini cruise on board Liberty of the Seas Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: February 14, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Liberty of the Seas; Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Nassau,[…]

Royal Caribbean, Nassau & CocoCay from Fort Lauderdale, February 10, 2025

4-day Bahamas mini cruise on board Liberty of the Seas Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: February 10, 2025; Duration: 4-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Liberty of the Seas; Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Nassau,[…]

Celebrity Silhouette, Key West & Nassau from Fort Lauderdale, February 7, 2025

3-day Bahamas cruise on board Celebrity Cruises Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: February 7, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Celebrity Cruises; Cruise Ship: Celebrity Silhouette; Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Key West, Nassau, Fort Lauderdale; Enjoy[…]

Royal Caribbean, Nassau & CocoCay from Fort Lauderdale, February 7, 2025

3-day Bahamas mini cruise on board Liberty of the Seas Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: February 7, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Liberty of the Seas; Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Nassau,[…]

Royal Caribbean, Nassau & CocoCay from Fort Lauderdale, February 3, 2025

4-day Bahamas mini cruise on board Liberty of the Seas Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: February 3, 2025; Duration: 4-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Liberty of the Seas; Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Nassau,[…]

Celebrity Silhouette, Key West & Nassau from Fort Lauderdale, January 31, 2025

3-day Bahamas cruise on board Celebrity Cruises Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: January 31, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Celebrity Cruises; Cruise Ship: Celebrity Silhouette; Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Key West, Nassau, Fort Lauderdale; Enjoy[…]

Royal Caribbean, Nassau & CocoCay from Fort Lauderdale, January 31, 2025

3-day Bahamas mini cruise on board Liberty of the Seas Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: January 31, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Liberty of the Seas; Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Nassau,[…]

Royal Caribbean, Nassau & CocoCay from Fort Lauderdale, January 27, 2025

4-day Bahamas mini cruise on board Liberty of the Seas Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: January 27, 2025; Duration: 4-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Liberty of the Seas; Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Nassau,[…]

Celebrity Silhouette, Key West & Nassau from Fort Lauderdale, January 24, 2025

3-day Bahamas cruise on board Celebrity Cruises Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: January 24, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Celebrity Cruises; Cruise Ship: Celebrity Silhouette; Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Key West, Nassau, Fort Lauderdale; Enjoy[…]

Royal Caribbean, Nassau & CocoCay from Fort Lauderdale, January 24, 2025

3-day Bahamas mini cruise on board Liberty of the Seas Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: January 24, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Liberty of the Seas; Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Nassau,[…]

Royal Caribbean, Nassau & CocoCay from Fort Lauderdale, January 20, 2025

4-day Bahamas mini cruise on board Liberty of the Seas Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: January 20, 2025; Duration: 4-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Liberty of the Seas; Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Nassau,[…]

Celebrity Silhouette, Key West & Nassau from Fort Lauderdale, January 17, 2025

3-day Bahamas cruise on board Celebrity Cruises Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: January 17, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Celebrity Cruises; Cruise Ship: Celebrity Silhouette; Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Key West, Nassau, Fort Lauderdale; Enjoy[…]

Royal Caribbean, Nassau & CocoCay from Fort Lauderdale, January 17, 2025

3-day Bahamas mini cruise on board Liberty of the Seas Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: January 17, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Liberty of the Seas; Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Nassau,[…]

Royal Caribbean, Nassau & CocoCay from Fort Lauderdale, January 13, 2025

4-day Bahamas mini cruise on board Liberty of the Seas Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: January 13, 2025; Duration: 4-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Liberty of the Seas; Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Nassau,[…]

Celebrity Silhouette, Key West & Nassau from Fort Lauderdale, January 10, 2025

3-day Bahamas cruise on board Celebrity Cruises Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: January 10, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Celebrity Cruises; Cruise Ship: Celebrity Silhouette; Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Key West, Nassau, Fort Lauderdale; Enjoy[…]

Royal Caribbean, Nassau & CocoCay from Fort Lauderdale, January 10, 2025

3-day Bahamas mini cruise on board Liberty of the Seas Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: January 10, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Liberty of the Seas; Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Nassau,[…]

Royal Caribbean, Nassau & CocoCay from Fort Lauderdale, January 6, 2025

4-day Bahamas mini cruise on board Liberty of the Seas Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: January 6, 2025; Duration: 4-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Liberty of the Seas; Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Nassau,[…]

Celebrity Silhouette, Key West & Nassau from Fort Lauderdale, January 3, 2025

3-day Bahamas cruise on board Celebrity Cruises Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: January 3, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Celebrity Cruises; Cruise Ship: Celebrity Silhouette; Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Key West, Nassau, Fort Lauderdale; Enjoy[…]

Royal Caribbean, Nassau & CocoCay from Fort Lauderdale, January 3, 2025

3-day Bahamas mini cruise on board Liberty of the Seas Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: January 3, 2025; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Liberty of the Seas; Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Nassau,[…]

Royal Caribbean, Nassau & CocoCay New Year cruise from Fort Lauderdale, December 30, 2024

4-day Bahamas Holiday cruise on board Liberty of the Seas Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: December 30, 2024; Duration: 4-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Liberty of the Seas; Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Nassau,[…]

Celebrity Silhouette, Key West & Nassau Holiday cruise from Fort Lauderdale, December 23, 2024

4-day cruise to Bahamas on board Celebrity Cruises Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: December 23, 2024; Duration: 4-day cruise; Cruise Line: Celebrity Cruises; Cruise Ship: Celebrity Silhouette; Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Key West, Nassau, Fort Lauderdale;[…]

Royal Caribbean, Nassau & CocoCay Holiday cruise from Fort Lauderdale, December 23, 2024

4-day Bahamas mini cruise on board Liberty of the Seas Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: December 23, 2024; Duration: 4-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Liberty of the Seas; Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Nassau,[…]

Celebrity Silhouette, Key West & Nassau from Fort Lauderdale, December 20, 2024

3-day Bahamas cruise on board Celebrity Cruises Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: December 20, 2024; Duration: 3-day cruise; Cruise Line: Celebrity Cruises; Cruise Ship: Celebrity Silhouette; Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Key West, Nassau, Fort Lauderdale; Enjoy[…]

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• World's Best

Travel + Leisure Readers' 5 Favorite Small-ship Ocean Cruise Lines of 2023

Readers shared why great things come in small (ship) packages in our annual "World’s Best Awards" survey for 2023.

Paul Brady is the news director at Travel + Leisure and the brand's expert on cruise travel. He has been covering the travel industry for more than 15 years for outlets including Condé Nast Traveler , Skift , and The Huffington Post .

How Voting Works

• What Readers Loved
• The Full List

This year, small ships seem to be hitting the mark. These vessels, which Travel + Leisure defines as those with 150 to 299 cabins, offer what many readers consider the perfect blend of choice and comfort, with plenty of onboard dining and activities without the at-times overwhelming selection found on much larger ships. In fact, small ships may be driving a surge of interest in cruising generally, as new and newly refreshed options in this range are drawing both longtime cruisers and those eager to try a new way of traveling.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 165,000 T+L readers completed the 2023 survey, an increase of nearly 25 percent over pre-pandemic voting levels. A total of more than 685,000 votes were cast across over 8,500 unique properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.).

For the cruise category, respondents were asked to rate individual ships; the results were combined to generate scores for cruise lines in different categories based on number of cabins. The small-ship ocean cruise line category is only for ships with 150 to 299 cabins. Some cruise lines may appear in multiple categories depending on the makeup of their fleet.

Ships were specifically rated on the criteria below:

• Cabins/facilities
• Itineraries/destinations
• Excursions/activities

For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses. 

Tim McKenna/Courtesy of Paul Gauguin Cruises

What Readers Loved 

In the 2023 voting, readers gave high marks to established brands that have reinvigorated their offerings. Consider No. 2 Windstar Cruises, which recently rebuilt three of its small ships at an investment of $250 million, adding more suites, improved culinary options, and enhanced spa facilities to each. “I'm never going to be able to get on another cruise line,” said one convert, who traveled on Star Legend .

Meanwhile Paul Gauguin Cruises (No. 3) may have slipped a bit from its 2022 ranking but still posted a score of more than 92 points. That’s thanks to its luxurious service — most rooms come with butler service — and, no doubt, its dreamy itineraries that visit remote atolls in South Pacific and the cruise line’s private beach on Bora Bora. “It's the only way to see this part of the world,” one voter shared.

This year’s small-ship leader, though, made its mark with two new vessels that are unlike anything else sailing today. Read on to see how Viking captured this category — and for more details on all the top lines.

Courtesy of Viking

Typically thought of as a midsize-ship line, Viking took top honors in this category, too, thanks to its twin ships Viking Polaris and Viking Octantis . The expedition vessels, both of which have 189 cabins, are built for out-there adventures, whether on the waters of the Great Lakes or in the Southern Ocean on the way to Antarctica. “I can't say enough about how wonderful our experience was on the Viking Octantis to Antarctica. The ship is stunning in every way,” one voter said. “The excursions were all well-planned and executed — and the science and educational sessions were excellent,” another added. While shorter trips aboard these ships are possible, Viking can also arrange for a “ longitudinal world cruise .” These multi-month journeys will take intrepid guests from Minnesota to Ushuaia, Argentina — or the other way around — in small-ship comfort, with port excursions and insightful lectures along the way. 

The Full List 

Reader Score: 95.35

2. Windstar Cruises

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 92.72

3. Paul Gauguin Cruises

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 92.56

4. Seabourn

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 92.51

5. Silversea

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 90.56

Related Articles

American Cruises from Jacksonville

The small ships of American Cruise Lines are ready to give you a unique experience out of the Jacksonville, Florida. The modern 100-passenger ships are small enough to travel calm inland waterways and dock at quaint ports.

Amenities on American Cruise Line include guest lecturers, musical entertainment, good food, complimentary cocktails, resort casual dress, comfortable lounges and large observation decks. Many of the spacious staterooms have private balconies.

7-night Historic South and Golden Isles cruises to Charleston, South Carolina. Sail through the South on the calm Intracoastal Waterway. Ports of call include Jekyll Island (Georgia), St Simons Island (Georgia), Savannah (Georgia), Hilton Head Island (South Carolina) and Beaufort (South Carolina). • 2024 departures: February 24, March 9, March 11, March 14, March 23, March 25, March 28, April 6, April 8, April 11, April 22, May 6, November 16, November 20, November 30, December 4, December 8, December 14, December 22, December 23, December 28.

7-night Great Rivers of Florida cruises . Round-trip from Jacksonville to Green Cove Springs (Florida), Palatka (Florida), Amelia Island (Florida), Tolomato River and St Augustine (Florida). • 2024 departures: February 5, February 8, February 12, February 15, February 19, February 22, February 26, February 29, March 4, March 7, November 18, November 24, December 1, December 2, December 9, December 16.

14-night East Coast Inland Passage cruises from Amelia Island (Florida) to Baltimore (Maryland). Visit Jekyll Island (Georgia), St Simons Island (Georgia), Savannah (Georgia), Hilton Head (South Carolina), Beaufort (South Carolina), Charleston (South Carolina), Wilmington (North Carolina), Morehead City (North Carolina), Kitty Hawk (North Carolina), Norfolk (Virginia) and St Michaels (Maryland). • 2024 departures: April 20, April 25, May 20.

7-night Historic South and Golden Isles cruises to Charleston, South Carolina. Sail through the South on the calm Intracoastal Waterway. Ports of call include Jekyll Island (Georgia), St Simons Island (Georgia), Savannah (Georgia), Hilton Head Island (South Carolina) and Beaufort (South Carolina). • 2025 departures: February 1, February 8, February 15, February 22, March 1, March 8, March 10, March 15, March 22, March 24, March 29, April 5, April 7, April 10, April 12, April 21, April 26, May 5, May 10, November 19, December 3, December 5, December 19, December 22.

7-night Great Rivers of Florida cruises . Round-trip from Jacksonville to Green Cove Springs (Florida), Palatka (Florida), Amelia Island (Florida), Tolomato River and St Augustine (Florida). • 2025 departures: February 17, February 24, March 3, November 21, November 28.

14-night East Coast Inland Passage cruises from Amelia Island (Florida) to Baltimore (Maryland). Visit Jekyll Island (Georgia), St Simons Island (Georgia), Savannah (Georgia), Hilton Head (South Carolina), Beaufort (South Carolina), Charleston (South Carolina), Wilmington (North Carolina), Morehead City (North Carolina), Kitty Hawk (North Carolina), Norfolk (Virginia) and St Michaels (Maryland). • 2025 departures: April 19, April 24, May 19, May 24.

America's East Coast Small Ship Cruises

America’s East Coast cruises offer a diverse and enriching cruise experience, with itineraries that range from the sunny shores of Florida to the historic ports of New England and the maritime beauty of Canada. Here’s an overview of what you might expect on an East Coast cruise:

Southern Charm and Sunshine

• Florida: Many cruises along the East Coast kick off from Florida’s vibrant ports such as Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or Port Canaveral. Key West is the southernmost point of the continental U.S. is famous for its laid-back atmosphere, historic sites like Ernest Hemingway’s home, and the vibrant Duval Street.

Historic Seaports and Cities

• Charleston, South Carolina : Known for its well-preserved architecture, rich history, and hospitable people, Charleston is a favorite stop. Visitors can explore the historic district, visit Fort Sumter, or enjoy the local cuisine.
• Savannah, Georgia : Similar to Charleston, Savannah offers a glimpse into the South’s Antebellum past with its beautiful public squares, moss-draped oaks, and restored historic homes.

Mid-Atlantic Marvels

• Baltimore and Annapolis, Maryland : These ports offer access to American naval history and the charms of Chesapeake Bay. Annapolis, with its historic Naval Academy, and Baltimore’s Inner Harbor are highlights.
• Washington, D.C. : Some itineraries may include a stop or excursion near the nation’s capital, where passengers can visit iconic sites like the Smithsonian museums, the National Mall, and U.S. Capitol.

New England Elegance

• Boston, Massachusetts : The cradle of American independence, Boston offers historical tours along the Freedom Trail, visits to the USS Constitution, and the modern attractions of the bustling Seaport District.
• Newport, Rhode Island : Famous for its Gilded Age mansions and the America’s Cup yacht race. The Cliff Walk and tours of palatial homes like The Breakers offer glimpses into the opulent past of American high society.

Canadian Connections

• Halifax, Nova Scotia : This friendly maritime city offers rich history, including connections to the Titanic disaster and the 1917 Halifax Explosion. The rugged coastal beauty and the historic Citadel Hill are must-sees.
• Saint John, New Brunswick : Known for the reversing falls and close to the Bay of Fundy, which boasts the world’s highest tides. Nature excursions and seafood culinary experiences are plentiful here.

Seasonal Spectaculars

• Fall Foliage Cruises : These cruises are particularly popular for their stunning views of autumn’s vibrant colors along the New England and Canadian coastlines. Ports like Bar Harbor, Maine, offer access to Acadia National Park and its spectacular natural beauty.

America’s East Coast cruises cater to a wide range of interests, from sun-seekers and history buffs to nature lovers and foodies, making it a versatile and rewarding cruising destination.

America's East Coast Cruise Itineraries

Maine Coast and Harbors Cruise

On this 8-day Maine Coast and Harbors Cruise sailing roundtrip from Portland, ME, travel to charming ports famous for their shipbuilding, as well as to beautiful national parks with magnificent views and abundant wildlife. Explore quaint historic districts and charming villages, and dine on the freshest, locally sourced seafood prepared by our team of master chefs.

New England Islands Cruise

On this 8-day New England Islands cruise sailing roundtrip Providence, RI aboard the 90-passenger American Star and 100-passenger American Liberty , immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of New England, from New Bedford, MA, once known as the whaling capital of the world, to Newport, RI, home to mansions of the Gilded Age.

Grand New England Cruise

On this 15 Day Grand New England Cruise aboard the 100-guest American Glory , travel along the picturesque waterways of New England that tell the story of American history, from the Mayflower’s landing to the Boston Tea Party. A centuries-old shipbuilding tradition lives on here in shipyards along the shoreline and schooners that adorn the harbors.

East Coast Inland Passage Cruise

On this 15-day East Coast Inland Passage cruise sailing between Jacksonville/Amelia Island, FL and Baltimore, MD, cruise through a rich past that has influenced our country since the days of early exploration.

Great Rivers of Florida Cruise

On this epic 8-day Great Rivers of Florida cruise sailing roundtrip Jacksonville, FL, explore the charming towns, impressive wildlife, and native scenery on this exciting river cruise through northern Florida.

Hudson River Fall Foliage Cruise

On this 8-day Hudson River Fall Foliage Cruise sailing roundtrip New York City, NY, delight in the kaleidoscope of colors on this enchanting journey along the Hudson River. Witness the rich reds, bright oranges, and golden yellows that flood its shores during the vibrant autumn season.

Canada and New England Fall Foliage

On this captivating 11-day Canada and New England Fall Foliage cruise between Portland, ME and Quebec City, QC aboard the Pearl Mist , discover the most sought-after Canadian locations, as well as many of Pearl Seas Cruises favorite colorful destinations along the New England coast.

Canadian Maritimes and St. Lawrence Seaway

This amazing 16-day Canadian Maritimes and St. Lawrence Seaway cruise aboard the 210-guest Pearl Mist explores the most magnificent regions of Canada and Maine. Peruse the picturesque downtown of Bar Harbor, before visiting the stunning natural landscapes of Acadia National Park.

Canadian Maritimes and Newfoundland

On this 10-day Canadian Maritime and Newfoundland cruise roundtrip from St. Johns, Newfoundland aboard the 148-passenger National Geographic Explorer , sail into Eastern Canada’s breathtaking natural beauty.

Chesapeake Bay Cruise

This 7-day Chesapeake Bay cruise sailing roundtrip from Baltimore, MD abounds in history and culture. From the vibrant harbor of Baltimore, travel to Yorktown, Williamsburg, and Jamestown, known as the “Historic Triangle.”

American Revolution Cruise

On this 11-day American Revolution cruise sailing roundtrip from Baltimore, MD aboard the 100-passenger American Constitution , travel back to the dawn of America. Explore the quaint towns and historic cities that have shaped our nation, including Colonial Williamsburg, a living history museum with period-specific tradespeople, shopkeepers, and political figures.

Historic South and Golden Isles Cruise

On this 8-day Historic South and Golden Isles Cruise sailing between Charleston, SC to Amelia Island, FL aboard either the 100-passenger American Star or 100-passenger American Independence , explore the Intracoastal Waterway, home to some of the most beautiful historic cities in America, is a protected network of bays, rivers, and canals.

Cape Codder Cruise

On this 8-day Cape Codder Cruise sailing roundtrip from Boston, MA aboard the 170-passenger American Constitution , experience the rich essence of Cape Cod, the perfect a summer retreat.

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Best cruises from Florida: Our top 9 trips from the Sunshine State

Cruises from Florida are the most popular options for travelers who wish to sail from the United States. It was only this year that Miami was dethroned as the busiest cruise port in the world — replaced by rival Florida home port, Port Canaveral.

Not only do cruises from Florida allow you to see some of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean and Bahamas, but they also allow travelers to experience some of the biggest and best cruise ships sailing right now. The largest cruise ship afloat, Royal Caribbean 's Wonder of the Seas, sails from Port Canaveral; family-friendly rival Disney Wish, the newest Disney cruise ship in a decade, also home ports in Florida.

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Families planning multigenerational getaways, couples seeking child-free vacations and groups of friends looking to have a good time can all find their perfect ship and itinerary departing from one of Florida's six departure ports.

To give you a taste of the diversity of options available from the Sunshine State, here are our picks for the best cruises from Florida.

Wonder of the Seas to the Western Caribbean 

Wonder of the Seas , Royal Caribbean's flagship and the largest cruise ship in the world, departs weekly from Port Canaveral (the cruise port closest to Orlando). The ship sails seven-night Western Caribbean itineraries, stopping at tropical destinations like Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico; Roatan, Honduras; and the cruise line's private island in the Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay .

While the islands offer plenty of fun in the sun, the ship itself is filled with tons of family-friendly activities. Siblings or parents and kids can race each other to the bottom of the twin waterslides, named Typhoon and Cyclone. If you prefer to stay dry, hop into the Ultimate Abyss tunnel slide, where riders will glide down 10 stories of darkness before bottoming out on the ship's Boardwalk.

Kids ages 6 months to 17 years old have their own hangouts with dedicated programming supervised by fun counselors. While the kids play with new friends, adults can veg out in the glass-encased Solarium, relaxing on padded loungers or in a bubbling hot tub.

When it's time to come together for a meal, you'll please all palates at The Mason Jar , one of Royal Caribbean's newest restaurants that highlights Southern comfort food. The menu teems with tasty dishes like fried chicken, gumbo and po'boys that will leave you completely satisfied. Brunch here comes with a side of live country music.

Related: Wonder of the Seas 3 ways: Inside, balcony and suite compared

Freedom of the Seas to the Bahamas

Cruisers who are loyal to Royal Caribbean or those who want to test the waters with the brand without the commitment of a seven-night sailing can enjoy short, three-night sailings on Freedom of the Seas out of Miami.

The quickie voyages take you to Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay, and a day spent on Royal Caribbean's stunning island is reason enough to book this cruise. At this private Bahamian beach resort, cruisers can ride the slides at Thrill Water Park, rent a beachside cabana for a mix of shade and sun, or float about in a sheltered lagoon. A barbecue lunch is included, and passengers can utilize their onboard drink package.

The 4,635-passenger ship provides fun around every corner. Challenge one another to a round of minigolf, show off your skills on the FlowRider surf simulator or test your muscle on the rock climbing wall. Entertainment on Freedom of the Seas ranges from Royal Caribbean's iconic ice skating shows to live music in the pub. Pool parties, outdoor movies and laser tag are also included with your cruise fare.

With so much to do on board, plus the short sailing times, cruises on this ship can have a distinct party vibe. There's a reason that the College Party Cruise charter company uses Freedom of the Seas for its March spring break sailings.

No cruise is complete without great food, and this ship offers 11 different dining venues highlighting such cuisines as Italian, Mexican and Japanese.

Related: Caribbean vs. Bahamas cruises: Which itinerary will I like more?

Carnival Elation to the Bahamas 

Carnival Elation is unique because it's the only ship from any cruise line that sails from Jacksonville. Its four- and five-day sailings to the Bahamas stop at Nassau and a second destination that varies. Choose from cruises to Bimini, Freeport, Half Moon Cay or Princess Cays — the latter two are private beaches operated by the Carnival Corporation.

The 2,606-passenger cruise ship is one of Carnival Cruise Line 's smallest and oldest ships. Aboard the intimate vessel allows you to get to know the crew and other cruisers. Popular hangouts include Carnival's beloved Alchemy Bar, where you can order cocktails at a vintage pharmacy-themed bar.

For outdoor dining, head to Guy's Burger Joint, created by celebrity chef Guy Fieri. Order a loaded burger and perfectly golden-brown fries, then head to the Lido Deck near the pool for great people-watching.

Entertainment on this small ship is still plentiful. Cruisers can splash around at WaterWorks, the family-friendly water playground, or head up to the adults-only Serenity Retreat for a quieter experience. The Punchliner Comedy Club hosts a variety of comedians that will have kids and adults laughing throughout the night. Catch a live production in the main theater or sing along with the pianist at the popular Piano Bar.

Related: Visiting a cruise line's private island? Don't make these mistakes

Carnival Mardi Gras to the Eastern Caribbean

If you'd prefer to sample one of Carnival's newest and largest ships, you can sail from Port Canaveral on the line's Mardi Gras . Its Eastern Caribbean sailings visit island destinations like St. Thomas, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic and Grand Turk. Mardi Gras' six- to eight-night itineraries provide a good mix of sea days at the start and end of the sailings.

The impressive ship is known for its party atmosphere, which is highlighted by an onboard zone themed to New Orleans' French Quarter. Here, passengers will find Emeril's Bistro 1396, an homage to NOLA's cuisine developed in partnership with celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse. Don't miss the Brass Magnolia and the Fortune Teller bars, which start hopping when the sun goes down.

The Ultimate Playground on the ship's top deck is where adrenaline junkies and sports lovers will want to hang out. You'll get all the thrills with a ride on BOLT, the first roller coaster at sea, or take a lap around the elevated ropes course. If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, minigolf and a full-size basketball court await.

Related: Best Carnival cruise ships: Here's which ship you should sail, based on your travel style

Disney Magic to the Bahamas 

When the summer of 2024 rolls around, Disney Magic will set sail from Disney Cruise Line 's newest home port in Florida, Fort Lauderdale. The ship's shorter three- and four-night Bahamian itineraries include a visit to Nassau and either Castaway Cay, Disney's stunning private island, or Lighthouse Point, Disney's newest island destination . Longer five-night sailings include a stop at both private beaches or a double dip at Castaway Cay, along with a day at Nassau.

Disney Magic is among Disney's smaller ships, but fans love it for its intimate size and fewer crowds. Beloved Disney characters like Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse welcome you aboard with hugs and photo ops throughout your sailing.

Guests rotate each night among the ship's three dining rooms, including Rapunzel's Royal Table — inspired by Disney's animated "Tangled." There's also Animator's Palate, an homage to Disney's animation studios. You'll have the same servers at all restaurants, so they get to know your family and your dining preferences. At night the Walt Disney Theater features Broadway-caliber shows, like "Tangled: The Musical."

Families looking for some time apart will love that Disney has an included kids club where younger cruisers can enjoy fun activities under the watchful eye of the ship's youth staff. The Oceaneer Club features themed areas like Andy's Room from "Toy Story" and Tinkerbell's home at Pixie Hollow. Kids can also take superhero lessons from Thor. The Oceaneer Lab offers baking classes inspired by "Ratatouille" and sessions where kids learn how to draw their favorite Disney characters.

Adults can use their free time to savor a meal at the adults-only Italian restaurant, Palo, or kick back in the ship's multiple bars and live music venues.

Prefer to sail on a newer Disney ship? Check out Disney Wish , with three- and four-night sailings from Port Canaveral to Castaway Cay and Nassau.

Holland America's Rotterdam to the Southern Caribbean

Holland America is known for its elegant ships and longer itineraries, such as Rotterdam 's nine- to 16-night Southern Caribbean options out of Fort Lauderdale. The newest ship in the fleet, Rotterdam sails to Curacao, Bonaire, Aruba and Half Moon Cay on nine-night voyages, while its longer 16-day sailings add on Grand Turk, the Dominican Republic, and Key West.

With just 2,668 guests onboard, Rotterdam is homey and charming with a touch of luxury. The ship doubles down on live music; a live band plays all the rock hits at the Rolling Stone Rock Room, while an eight-piece band gets everyone on their feet when they play R&B favorites at B.B. King's Blues Club. For some daytime activity, the competition is on at the ship's pickleball courts , where cruisers can take lessons or play in tournaments against their shipmates.

Expect impeccable dining at specialty restaurants like Rudi's Sel de Mer, a French-inspired restaurant from Holland America's master chef Rudi Sodamin; Canaletto, an Italian bistro offering all of the classics; and Tamarind, where diners can sample regional dishes from China, Japan and Southeast Asia. For daytime snacks, don't miss the Dutch pancake bites called poffertjes or the French fries with peanut dipping sauce.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Holland America ship

Norwegian Encore to the Eastern Caribbean

If you're looking for a weeklong cruise out of Miami, consider sailing on Norwegian Encore to the Dominican Republic, St. Thomas and Tortola. Each island offers spectacular sandy beaches that give way to sparkling blue waters, plus options for water sports, museum visits and hikes to the top of lush mountaintops.

The itinerary also includes a stop at Norwegian Cruise Line 's private island, Great Stirrup Cay. There you can enjoy a relaxing beach day, where all you have to worry about is getting back to the ship on time from the tender dock.

On board the ship, zip around the Encore Speedway in a go-kart, play laser tag in an Atlantis-themed arena, splash around the AquaPark or experience virtual reality games inside the Galaxy Pavilion. For a calmer diversion, purchase a pass to the Vibe Beach Club, an adults-only retreat with lounge chairs, umbrellas and specialty food and drinks. The pass is good for the entire cruise, so you can come and go as you please.

There's a wide range of dining options, including complimentary and extra-charge restaurants. Belly up to the Local Bar and Grill for classic pub dishes and cocktails on tap. If you're willing to pay extra for a meal, Q Texas Smokehouse is worth a stop. The a la carte restaurant serves authentic Texas-style barbecue and all the classic sides. After dinner service, the restaurant turns into a country dance club with a live band and an open dance floor.

Celebrity Apex to the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico

Celebrity Cruises' Celebrity Apex sets sail from Fort Lauderdale to some of the most picturesque islands in the Caribbean. From November 2023 through April 2024, Apex will offer weeklong sailings to Puerto Rico, St. Maarten, St. Thomas and the Dominican Republic. Two sea days give you time to relax and have fun on the ship.

What makes this itinerary special is that it features later all-aboard times in San Juan and St. Maarten, allowing guests to see the islands as they come alive in the sunset glow.

Celebrity Apex is part of Celebrity Cruises ' Edge class of ships, with standout features like high-end design and modern touches. One of Apex's highlights is the Magic Carpet, a suspended lounge that hangs off the side of the ship. When it's positioned by the pool deck, you can stop in to sip cocktails; when it's at water level, it serves as a platform for easy boarding of tender boats.

There are lots of chic spots to chill with your travel companions. Savor some kebabs or a flatbread pizza among live plants in the ship's Rooftop Garden, then watch the sun sink into the sea at the aptly named Sunset Bar. Submerge yourself in a martini-shaped hot tub out on the pool deck or enjoy a dip on a rainy day in the covered adults-only Solarium.

With 29 different food and beverage options on Apex, cruisers will never be bored at meal times. Specialty dining includes Le Grand Bistro, themed after a traditional Parisian boulangerie-patisserie, and the Eden Restaurant, with its tasting menu of international dishes.

If you don't want to spend extra money on food, stick with the ship's four themed main dining rooms and the Mast Grill, which serves juicy burgers and hearty salads. The Oceanview Cafe serves made-to-order breakfast and lunch offerings, while dinner features a rotating menu with international flair.

Related: Eastern Caribbean vs. Western Caribbean cruises: Which itinerary will I like more?

Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Lady to Key West and Bimini 

Step aboard the adults-only Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Lady for a Fire and Sunset Soirees cruise to Key West, Florida and Bimini, Bahamas, from Miami. The four-night sailings are great for cruisers who want to try out Virgin Voyages or those who want a long weekend away.

You can book an excursion in Key West, but it's easy to explore on your own. Take a ride on the hop-on, hop-off bus or saunter down Duval Street and around Old Town. For local fare, swing by D.J.'s Clam Shack for fresh seafood or Garbo's Grill for Korean barbecue beef tacos. Both were showcased on the Food Network's "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives." Treat yourself to key lime pie on a stick before you head back to the ship.

In Bimini, head straight to Virgin's exclusive beach resort, the Beach Club at Bimini . Here, you can enjoy floating in the pool, Caribbean-themed lunch and games on the beach.

Scarlet Lady is a playground for grownups. The Redemption Spa is a relaxing retreat where you can book a block of time to enjoy the thermal suite or try out a couples massage. For a permanent reminder of your cruise, get a tattoo at Squid Ink . The ship is known for its creative theatrical performances and rollicking nightlife. Head to The Manor for comedy and drag shows, plus late-night revelry. Don't miss Virgin's hyped-up Scarlet Night, which culminates in an epic pool party.

All of the table-service restaurants on Scarlet Lady are included in your cruise fare. You won't find a traditional main dining room. To secure your preferred mealtimes, book dinner reservations through the Virgin Voyages app as soon as you can. Restaurants that are not to be missed include Extra Virgin for Italian fare; The Wake, the fine-dining steakhouse; and Gunbae, the Korean barbecue restaurant where you start your meal with a drinking game.

Bottom line

You can find cruises from Florida to fit every traveler's wants and needs, from a weeklong family vacation to a shorter getaway for a couple or group of friends. Older-yet-intimate ships, newer mega-ships and everything in between depart from the Sunshine State to destinations in the Caribbean and Bahamas.

Whether you choose one of our favorite sailings or find an itinerary that suits you better, you can't go wrong with a cruise out of Florida.

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Cruises from Florida

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Paradise Awaits on a Cruise from Florida

Embark on a tropical cruise from Florida, a sun-soaked destination with four departure ports to choose from: Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, and Port Canaveral. Our cruises from Florida offer a wide variety of itineraries to consider, including short jaunts to the Bahamas and lengthy trips that visit multiple islands in the Caribbean. Cruises departing from Florida set sail throughout most of the year, allowing you to plan your next vacation in the winter, spring, summer, or fall.

Escape the winter chill and head off to an Eastern Caribbean cruise from Fort Lauderdale. Take advantage of a holiday weekend and book a three-night cruise from Miami that stops in Key West and the Bahamas. Explore the visionary spaces aboard Celebrity Apex, our newest ship in our fleet, during a six-night cruise around the Western Caribbean. Or unwind on the pristine beaches of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao during an eleven-night cruise from Tampa. There’s no shortage of heavenly destinations and luxury cruise ships to choose from for your next Caribbean vacation.

Florida Cruise Destinations

Western caribbean.

Unwind on white sand beaches and take a dip in turquoise waters during a cruise around the islands of the Western Caribbean. Swim with stingrays in Grand Cayman. Go snorkeling in pristine coral reefs found in Cozumel. Or spend a family day filled with fun at Costa Maya, a Mexican beach town where there’s a variety of water sports to try, including paddle boarding, fly fishing, and snorkeling.

Eastern Caribbean

Embrace a laid-back lifestyle while on a cruise through the Eastern Caribbean, where you’ll stop in vibrant beach towns and idyllic islands. Enjoy the sights and flavors of San Juan, Puerto Rico, where you can lounge on a beach with a sweet rum punch or make your way through historic forts and castles. Stroll hand in hand with your sweetheart at Magens Bay in St. Thomas, long considered to be one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Or go on a scenic hike up a dormant volcano in St. Kitts and Nevis, where you’ll be rewarded with unrivaled views of the ocean below. 

Southern Caribbean

Discover underwater treasures and stunning natural wonders on a Southern Caribbean cruise. Marvel at the towering pitons in St. Lucia—the perfect backdrop for a vacation photo. Dive into the crystal clear waters of Bonaire and paddle your way around one of the top dive sites in the world. Visit pink flamingos in Aruba and don’t leave Curacao without sampling the island’s famous blue liqueur.

The Bahamas

On a cruise to the Bahamas, impossibly white sand and transparent aquamarine waters await. Swim and play with friendly dolphins in their natural habitat. Shop for gifts and other handmade items at Nassau’s popular Straw Market. Spend the day at the Atlantis Resort, where a sprawling water park and various pools will keep every family member entertained for hours. Or forget about all of your worries during a VIP beach day at Blue Lagoon Island, where you won’t have to lift a finger.

Sail through one of the world’s most impressive feats of engineering during a cruise down the Panama Canal. Experience the thrill of watching the canal’s complex system of locks open and close as you cross from the Atlantic Ocean into the Pacific. Along the way, stop in tropical destinations in the Caribbean and Central and South America, including Puntarenas, Costa Rica, Cabo San Lucas in Mexico, and Cartagena, Colombia.

Embark on an unforgettable journey from North America to Europe on a spectacular Transatlantic cruise. Unwind during tranquil days at sea, where you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy all of the venues and highlights available onboard. During your transatlantic sailing, you’ll stop in exotic ports like the Azores and Canary Islands, as well as beautiful destinations in the Mediterranean, such as Florence and Provence.

Departure Ports in Florida

Fort lauderdale.

Depart from Fort Lauderdale, the home of one of the world’s largest cruise ports. Spend a few days before your cruise lounging on the warm beaches of Las Olas Boulevard. Take the kids out to the Museum of Science and Discovery for an afternoon of fun and learning. Or squeeze some exercise in at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, where you can bike, swim, or paddle board around its mangrove forests.

Sail off on a tropical vacation from Miami, the cruise capital of the world and an exciting destination with warm weather year-round. Stroll through the colorful streets of South Beach and admire its geometric Art Deco buildings. Experience the city’s famous nightlife, where the fun doesn’t end until the sun rises. Savor the traditional Cuban cuisine of Little Havana or go on an art walk around the massive, graffiti-covered walls of Wynwood.

The convenient departure port of Tampa Bay is a fantastic city well-worth exploring before embarking on a Caribbean cruise. Make your way through the Y-Bor City district, where you can shop in one of its many cigar shops and sample craft beers at a local brewery. Stop by the Florida Aquarium, where you can pet stingrays and watch dolphins on a catamaran cruise. Or start your vacation early and head to a Gulf Coast beach and dip your toes in sugary-soft sand and crystal clear water.

Orlando (Port Canaveral), Florida

While Orlando is best known for the thrills of its spectacular theme parks, there’s much more to this arty, energetic city, which encompasses long, tree-lined avenues, serene lakes, world-class museums, and an inventive culinary scene.

Florida Cruise Itineraries

Our Florida cruise itineraries are available year round and include everything from quick weekend trips to the Bahamas to dreamy 12-night journeys around the Caribbean. Choose one of the popular 7-day Caribbean cruises, which combine two days at sea with five port stops around this heavenly region. If you’re short on vacation time, plan a four-night escape and enjoy one or two sea days with a visit to ports in Key West, Cozumel, the Bahamas, or Grand Cayman.  Or if you’re looking for a truly unforgettable trip, spoil yourself with a  ten to twelve-night island-hopping cruise, where you’ll discover one tropical paradise after another.

Itineraries

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When you embark on a cruise from Florida with Celebrity, you’ll experience the perfect tropical getaway, both onboard and off. Spend your days in port lounging on pristine white-sand beaches and swimming in crystal clear waters. Find your adventurous side during exciting excursions that include scenic hikes up a volcano, snorkeling dives in vibrant coral reefs, and horseback rides through the jungle. Once you’re back on board, unwind in luxurious surroundings with unparalleled views of the ocean. Savor world-class meals crafted by a Michelin-starred chef and relax in spacious stateroom and suite accommodations. Discover visionary venues, like the Magic Carpet on our Edge-series ships, and the picturesque Lawn Club, a serene space with half an acre of real grass. Wherever you choose to sail, you’ll enjoy a restful and reinvigorating vacation you won’t soon forget.

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Popular shore excursions in florida.

Shore excursions in Florida include adventures in national parks and tours around vibrant cities. Our cruises from Florida make it easy for you to visit the state’s landmarks and popular attractions, thanks to shore excursions that combine a tour or activity with a convenient airport drop-off once you’re done.

Everglades Airboat Ride

Head to one of Florida’s top attractions, the Everglades National Park, which is famous for its swampy terrain and local wildlife, particularly the alligators. Go on a boat ride around the area and then visit an alligator farm, where you’ll learn more about these unique reptiles.

Discover Y-Bor City

Go on a guided tour of Tampa Bay and admire the view of Florida’s picturesque Gulf Coast. On the way, you’ll stop by the University of Tampa and the historic Y-Bor City, the Cuban district, where you can stock up on authentic cigars and try out local craft beers.

Miami City Tour

Admire the eclectic architecture and diverse culture of Miami during a tour around the city. Take photos in front of the pastel buildings in the Art Deco Historic District, taste the delicious cuisine of Little Havana, and marvel at the beautiful shores and music-filled bars of South Beach.

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Small Cruise Yachts

The best of small ship cruises.

Windstar's 148 to 342-guest small ships and personalized approach bring you closer to each destination and every port, so you can see the world from new perspectives. Share intimate moments away from the crowds, and immerse yourself in local, exotic cultures, all on a small cruise ship where surprise and delight are constant companions.

The Wind and the Stars Know the Way

You can slip past the crowds to discover smaller ports and get to know the local culture on more intimate excursions. Windstar's 148 to 342-guest small ships and personalized approach bring you closer to each destination and every port, so you can see the world from new perspectives. We offer two different yacht styles — the iconic sailing Wind Class and all-suite Star Plus Class — with custom-crafted journeys that highlight their unique attributes, whether island-hopping in Tahiti or cruising the Norwegian fjords. No wonder Windstar was voted the World’s Best midsize-ship ocean cruise line by the readers of Travel + Leisure in 2022.  

Iconic Wind Class

Windstar's flagship, Wind Surf sails with just 342 guests in 171 total staterooms: 18 Ocean View Suites with his and her bathrooms, 2 Bridge Suites, 1 Officer's Suite, and 150 Ocean View Staterooms.

Wind Star sails with just 148 pampered guests in 74 total staterooms: 73 deluxe, ocean-view staterooms and 1 deluxe Owner’s Suite with queen beds and a dining/sitting area.

Wind Spirit sails with just 148 pampered guests in 74 total staterooms: 73 deluxe, ocean-view staterooms and 1 deluxe Owner’s Suite with queen beds and a dining/sitting area.

All-suite Star Plus Class

Star Pride welcomes 312 guests in 156 suites, including 4 Owners' Suites, 2 beautiful Classic Suites, 3 Deluxe Suites, 79 Ocean View Suites, 58 Balcony suites, and 10 Star Porthole Suites.

Star Breeze welcomes 312 guests in 156 suites, including 4 Owners' Suites, 2 beautiful Classic Suites, 3 Deluxe Suites, 79 Ocean View Suites, 58 Balcony suites, and 10 Star Porthole Suites.

Star Legend welcomes 312 guests in 156 suites, including 4 Owners' Suites, 2 beautiful Classic Suites, 3 Deluxe Suites, 79 Ocean View Suites, 58 Balcony suites, and 10 Star Porthole Suites.

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A Sunshine State of Mind

Cruises from florida.

Cruises from Florida unlock endless adventures from the Panhandle to the Keys.

Dubbed the cruise capital of the world, Florida is also a top-ranked vacation destination in its own right. Hugged by the calm, blue-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico on its western coast and the cool, sapphire-blue waters of the Atlantic on its eastern coast, it's a true beach lover's paradise. Thanks to the Sunshine State's location, cruises from Florida provide some of the best and most preferred ports to eastern, western and southern Caribbean isles.

With there being so many things to do in Florida it's worth dedicating a few days before or after your cruise vacation to discover its sleepy beach towns, vibrant multicultural cities, and abundance of natural beauty. A Florida vacation getaway offers something for everyone!

Sailing from Florida on a Vacation Getaway

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Things to do in the Sunshine State

Whether you prefer to spend your days lounging on secluded beaches, teeing up on award-winning golf courses, kayaking through lush mangroves teeming with wildlife or salsa-stepping from dusk until dawn, cruises from Florida are the perfect opportunity to experience the best things the Sunshine State has to offer.

Enjoy Bolder Beach Days

Florida has beautiful beaches along three coasts. Relish the electric atmosphere of South Beach and Fort Lauderdale Beach, or enjoy the secluded shores of Cape San Blas.

Practice Your Putting in Paradise

Florida is home to more than 1,250 golf courses — more than any other U.S. state. Play a round of golf at the Tiburón Golf Club and the scenic Black Diamond Ranch.

Explore the Ethereal Everglades National Park

The Everglades is one of the Sunshine State's most iconic natural wonders — and exploring this National Park on an airboat safari or kayaking adventure is one of the best things to do in Florida.

Great Cruises Near Me From Florida

With four major ports, sailing out of Florida offers so many exciting options to explore on a day trip before or after your cruise. Find cruising near you from Miami , Fort Lauderdale , Orlando (Port Canaveral)  or Tampa and you'll find plenty of things to do to soak up the sun and culture in the Florida region.

See More of Mesmerizing Miami

Immerse in local history at the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in Miami during the day followed by the energetic nightlife when planning a short getaway before your vacation.

EXPLORE MIAMI CRUISES

Unforgettable Fort Lauderdale Day Trips

Plan a day trip in Fort Lauderdale to enjoy the relaxing Las Olas Beach boardwalk followed by a tour of the Historic Stranahan House Museum

EXPLORE FORT LAUDERDALE CRUISES

Family Fun in Orlando

Cruise out of Orlando, and you’ll be a short drive from a wide variety of thrill-filled family amusement parks as well as the ever fascinating Cape Canaveral Kennedy Space Center.

EXPLORE ORLANDO CRUISES

Experience Tampa's Natural Landscapes

Before or after your cruise from Tampa, explore the sprawling national reserves and watch the sunset over Florida's prettiest, least-crowded shorelines along the tranquil Gulf Coast, like Indian Rocks Beach.

EXPLORE TAMPA CRUISES

Week Long Wanders and Short Getaway Stays

Whether you only have a few days for a sun-soaked escape or are planning a longer cruise getaway from Florida, you'll find plenty of ways to fill every moment of your vacation with new discoveries.

Extended Florida Escapes

While you can certainly fit plenty of adventure into a short cruise from Florida, more time means more thrills — and more islands to explore. Set sail from Tampa, Orlando, Miami or Fort Lauderdale for a  week long travel vacation  that hits some of the best ports in the Caribbean.

Explore Week Long Cruises

Great Short Cruise Getaways

Only have a few days to spare on an unforgettable cruise getaway? No problem — choose from a wide range of two-, three- and four-night itineraries cruising from Florida to the Caribbean onboard several fleet-favorite cruise ships.

Explore Short Cruises

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO An insider's Guide to Florida Day Trips

Fall, winter and spring are hands-down the best seasons to visit Florida and the nearby Caribbean islands weather-wise. During these cooler months, temperatures hover in the 80s while the sun is out and dip into the 70s at night. If you can handle the heat, though, June through August are considered off-season in Florida and the Caribbean and see far fewer tourists than the rest of the year. When packing for your Florida cruise or vacation, make sure you don't forget sunscreen, polarized sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat. No matter what season you choose to visit, you can typically expect bright and sunny conditions when you vacation in Florida. Plus, all of the top things to do in Florida take place outdoors, so you'll be catching plenty of rays. 

What to Know About Cruising from the Four Florida Cruise Ports | Royal Caribbean Cruises

April 10, 2024

Planning to set sail from one of the Florida cruise ports? Whether you sail from Tampa, Miami, Fort Lauderdale or Orlando, these tips will help you plan.

The Best Cruises From Florida

March 20, 2024

Discover some of the most amazing islands you can visit in the best cruises from Florida. Learn tips on how to maximize a few days before or after your cruise at this amazing departure port.

How to get from Brightline trains to port? | Royal Caribbean Cruises

March 8, 2024

Cruising out of South Florida has never been easier, thanks to convenient routes on the high-speed Brightline train.

The Best Family Beaches in Florida

No matter where in the Sunshine State you travel, the best family beaches in Florida are never far. Here's where to hit Florida's sands with your brood.

9 Family-Friendly Things To Do in Miami Before a Cruise

A comprehensive list of family-friendly things to do in Miami before a cruise that will excite the whole family.

Best Exotic Petting Zoos in Florida

Planning to visit the best petting zoos for exotic animals before your cruise vacation out of Florida? Enjoy insider details on these unique experiences.

Visiting Florida Sea Turtle Sanctuaries

Is there a sea turtle sanctuary near me? When is turtle nesting and hatching season in Florida? Start your adventure to visiting the best places to see turtles.

Best Relaxing Beaches in Florida

Where are the best relaxing beaches in Florida? What is the quietest beach in Florida? Start your search for the most beautiful & secluded places to visit.

Best Fishing Trips in Florida

Where are the best fishing spots in Florida? What is the top location to plan a fishing trip before my cruise? Start your search for the ideal fishing getaway.

Top 10 Best Aquariums in Florida

Plan a day trip before or after your cruise to make the most of your vacation travels from Florida with a visit to the top 10 best aquariums.

Top 10 Florida Birding Hotspots | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Explore the best bird-watching spots in Florida! Our comprehensive guide offers insider tips and information for an unforgettable birding vacation.

Pack plenty of sunscreen for your cruise from Florida. It's called the Sunshine State for a reason!

If you're planning to spend a few days exploring Florida, consider renting a car. Driving is the easiest way to get around the state.

You'll be able to use much of your Caribbean cruise wardrobe while you're vacationing in Florida — sandals, bathing suits, cover-ups and breezy linen.

Bold Flavors Experience Local Florida Favorites

Florida is a melting pot of peoples as well as cultures — and the food scene here certainly reflects that. To the south, you'll find lots of Caribbean and Latin American influence in every bite. Venture north, to taste the flavors of the state’s local vegetable farms and fresh fishing markets.

Dine on Delectable Conch Fritters

The local favored crispy, golden-fried conch fritters are a harmony of Caribbean and Southern cooking influences. You'll find them at seafood restaurants from South Florida all the way up the coast.

Tuck into Some Gator Tail

Though it sounds adventurous, gator tail actually tastes a little bit like chicken and is quite delicious when cooked right. The tail is typically deep-fried and enjoyed either as an appetizer or an entrée with a spicy or sweet dipping sauce.

Taste the Top Key Lime Pie

The Florida Keys are famous for many things — key lime pie among them. Traditionally made with key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks and a crumbly vanilla pie crust and served cold, this sweet and tart treat is the perfect remedy for the Florida heat.

RELATED PORTS

Cruises from Florida take you to some of the most beautiful jewels of the Caribbean. Whether you choose to sail to Mexico, the Bahamas, Haiti or Jamaica, you're in for captivating shores, colorful coastal villages and plenty of island vibes.

St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

Roatan, Honduras

Labadee, Haiti

Montego Bay, Jamaica

Ocho Rios, Jamaica

Belize City, Belize

Philipsburg, St. Maarten

George Town, Grand Cayman

Basseterre, St. Kitts & Nevis

Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas

Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico

Falmouth, Jamaica

Cozumel, Mexico

Key West, Florida

Banana Coast (Trujillo), Honduras

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Mazatlan, Mexico

Tortola, British Virgin Islands

Yucatan (Progreso), Mexico

Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

Ensenada, Mexico

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Huatulco, Mexico

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Manzanillo, Mexico

Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

La Romana, Dominican Republic

Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos

RELATED DESTINATIONS

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Mini (Short Cruise) Cruise from Miami

Find your next Mini cruise from Miami

4-day Bahamas from Miami, Fl

Carnival conquest, carnival cruise line.

Date: May 13, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, Half Moon Cay, Nassau, Miami; View Itinerary

Freedom of the Seas, Royal Caribbean

Ports of Call: Miami, Nassau, CocoCay, Miami; View Itinerary

5-day Western Caribbean from Miami, Fl

Carnival sunrise, carnival cruise line.

Ports of Call: Miami, Ocho Rios, Grand Cayman, Miami; View Itinerary

Independence of the Seas, Royal Caribbean

Ports of Call: Miami, CocoCay, Cozumel, Miami; View Itinerary

Valiant Lady, Virgin Voyages

Date: May 15, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, Key West, Bimini, Miami; View Itinerary

3-day Bahamas from Miami, Fl

Date: May 17, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, Nassau, Miami; View Itinerary

Ports of Call: Miami, CocoCay, Nassau, Miami; View Itinerary

5-day Eastern Caribbean from Miami, Fl

Date: May 18, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, Nassau, Half Moon Cay, Grand Turk, Miami; View Itinerary

Date: May 19, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, Costa Maya, Bimini, Miami; View Itinerary

Date: May 20, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, Princess Cays, Nassau, Miami; View Itinerary

Date: May 23, 2024

4-day Eastern Caribbean from Miami, Fl

Ports of Call: Miami, Labadee, Miami; View Itinerary

Norwegian Sky, Norwegian Cruise Line

Ports of Call: Miami, Key West, Cozumel, Great Stirrup Cay, Miami; View Itinerary

Date: May 24, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, Puerto Plata, Bimini, Miami; View Itinerary

Date: May 27, 2024

Date: May 29, 2024

Date: May 31, 2024

Date: June 1, 2024

Date: June 2, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, Cozumel, Bimini, Miami; View Itinerary

Date: June 3, 2024

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Small Cruise Lines

History, review, itineraries, ships, deck plans, news.

•   Fleet
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Small Cruise Lines fleet

Storylines mv narrative, orient express corinthian, mv magellan discoverer, ms utopia residences, ocean residences my njord, clydebuilt ms dark island, aranui aramana, ocean albatros, ecoventura mv evolve galapagos, mv janssonius, sylvia earle, island escape yacht, sea cloud spirit, coral geographer, review of small cruise lines.

Small ship cruise deals offer expedition-style travel in some of the most pristine regions of the world. Most of these deals are all-inclusive packages that include pre- and post-cruise hotels, all transfers (including domestic flights), and often even both international flights to and from the destination country.

Small ship cruise travel is the best (often the only) way to explore more exotic vacation destinations. You won't find much in the way of theater productions or casinos, but that leaves room for educational pursuits. Small ships commonly organize enrichment seminars on everything - from local culture to photography. Sometimes local performers (historians, dancers, and musicians) are welcome on board to entertain.

Small ships go into the smaller ports - often inaccessible for big-sized vessels . This allows "expedition travelers" to experience the local people, culture and traditions of the destinations, and not only the tourist areas. This "intimate travel" experience includes viewing the wildlife up close, getting to know the crew and forming a bond with fellow passengers. Small ships, by definition, are with a way smaller passenger capacity , so you'll likely meet the same people over and over on a daily basis.

Still, the biggest advantage of small-ship vacations is flexibility. Booking availability is usually great, so picking your departure date is easier. Not to forget the choice of unique itineraries on which are navigated the world's most pristine destinations, including narrow fjords, remote islands, even inland waterways.

Small-ship cruising experiences don't include traditional for large liners amenities - like multiple dining venues, grand-style shows, kids programming. However, enjoying a personalized vacation while cruising the world on a "boat" is usually not recommended for first-timers and in the same time is best for affluent and more active travelers - as the money must not be an issue.

Small cruise lines

This is a list of the world's most popular small-ship cruise companies. Again, there should be also added river shipping companies, the largest among which are Viking , Uniworld , Avalon Waterways , AmaWaterways , CroisiEurope , Emerald Waterways , Scylla , Luftner-Amadeus .

Alaskan Dream Cruises ( fleet , AlaskanDreamCruises.com) is Allen family-owned company (founded 1970) operating Inside Passage itineraries - wilderness adventures on small-sized expedition ships. Its ships also visit exclusive ports of call in Alaska, including native-owned lands and a private island. Cruise prices are around USD 600 pp per night.

Aurora Expeditions ( fleet , AuroraExpeditions.com.au) is among the pioneers of polar expedition cruising, as well as a leading adventure travel company on the Australian market. The company was established in 1991 by Greg Mortimer (one of the first Australians to climb Mt Everest without oxygen) and his wife Margaret Mortimer. The company initially specialized in small-group cruises to Antarctica. In 2008 it was sold and the new owners started expedition voyages in Norway's Svalbard Islands , Russia's Far East, Greenland, PNG-Papua New Guinea, and South America (on Amazon River). In 2014 were inaugurated Alaskan Inside Passage itineraries and also launched land-river-sea expeditions in Ecuador (northwestern South America). In 2015 was launched an African cruisetour with a luxury safari cruise on Chobe River (Botswana). For polar operations, Aurora Expeditions charters ice-strengthened Russian research ships.

Coral Expeditions ( fleet , CoralExpeditions.com) is among the best for South Pacific Islands cruises. Each vessel has a high-speed tender boat and Zodiacs for landings.

International Expeditions (TUI-owned) and Metropolitan Touring are among the best choices for Galapagos Islands. Metropolitan Touring's Galapagos ships are larger compared to most of the yachts deployed in this region.

"Island Windjammers" owns sailing ships on Caribbean island itineraries year-round.

Variety Cruises ( fleet ) owns superyachts (motorized and sailing) and operates in the Mediterranean Sea, West Africa, Indian Ocean, Central America.

Katarina Line (Croatia-based) also operates as an international travel booking agency for other lines. Katarina owns around 40 small-sized ships and yachts in the region of Adriatic Sea (Dalmatian Coast). Each of the ships can be fully chartered.

"Peregrine Adventures" is among the best lines in Antarctica. The itineraries are with regular roundtrip departures from Argentina (Ushuaia) and Chile (Punta Arenas), with a duration between 8 and 20 days. Among the visited destinations are Shetland Islands, Antarctic Peninsula, Drake Passage, Falkland Islands, South Sandwich Islands. Deals are inclusive of hotels and all transfers. Fly cruise deals include departures from Buenos Aires. International flights are not included in the fares.

Noble Caledonia ( fleet , UK-based) operates chartered riverboats and owns two ships.

Quasar Expeditions (QuasarEx.com) is another major player on the luxury Galapagos cruising market. The company provides professional naturalists, and most of the tours (kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, walking, hiking) are included in the fares.

"Aggressor Fleet" owns an impressive number of smaller luxury yachts and operates in the Caribbean, Hawaii, Galapagos, Southeast Asia, Red Sea, Maldives, also in the South Pacific Ocean.

G Adventures (Gadventures.com) is a Galapagos cruise line brand. In July 2017, it acquired the UK-based company Swan Hellenic. G-Adventures restarted Swan Hellenic's operations in 2018. The company owns the MS Expedition (ice-strengthened vessel).

"Pearl Seas Cruises" operates in USA (Great Lakes), Canada (Canadian Maritimes) and also in the Caribbean. On January 23, 2017, started the first cruise to Cuba from Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale Florida). The 10-day itinerary visited Havana plus other Cuban ports. In 2017, the 210-passenger ship Pearl Mist had 11 voyages from Fort Lauderdale to Cuba (January through April), plus more scheduled for winter season 2017-2018.

The following companies have their individual pages at CruiseMapper. Each of them provides top-quality, small ship cruising experiences on comparably larger vessels.

• American Cruise Lines is famous for having large paddlewheel ships deployed on the US rivers Mississippi, Snake and Columbia. Other ACL ships cruise in Alaska also along the East Coast USA and Canada, Hudson River, and on Florida inland waterways.
• Grand Circle Cruise Line owns riverboats (operating in Europe and Asia) and also ocean ships. Its deals are inclusive of all tours, onboard lectures, local gourmet food specialties.
• Hurtigruten , along with its regular (year-round operated) Norwegian coastal itineraries also operates in the regions of the European Arctic and Antarctica. Unique tours in Europe offered by Hurtigruten are Northern Lights, Spitsbergen, polar circle landings (Greenland).
• Lindblad Expeditions has an exclusive partnership with National Geographic. The experience features wildlife watching on kayaks and Zodiacs, and complimentary tours lead by National Geographic naturalists.
• Quark Expeditions is the leading Antarctica cruise line.
• SeaDream Yacht Club has two superyachts operating in the Mediterranean (summer) and Caribbean (winter). Deals are fully all-inclusive.
• Silversea Expeditions operates a small fleet cruising in Alaska, Asia, Indian Ocean, Pacific Ocean, Galapagos. Deals are fully all-inclusive.
• Star Clippers owns tall-sailing ships (clippers) and operates in the Caribbean and Europe (Mediterranean). Deals are inclusive of marina-based sports (kayaking, wind sailing, waterskiing).
• Windstar Cruises provides some of the best "top luxury" products on the small cruising market. All boats are relatively bigger and with aft marina platforms.
• Un-Cruise Adventures is among the best Alaskan small-ship lines. During winter, its boats are repositioned to Hawaii, Baja Mexico, USA Northwest Coast. The steamer SS Legacy is cruising in the USA, on Snake and Columbia rivers.
• Oceanwide Expeditions (Oceanwide-Expeditions.com) operates ice-strengthened ships in Antarctica and the European Arctic.

Itinerary of Small Cruise Lines

Since small ship cruising deals are mainly provided by riverboats, you can also see an extensive list of river cruise lines ships at CruiseMapper's River Cruises hub. CruiseMapper is tracking cruises on rivers in Europe, USA, Russia, and Asia as both itineraries and prices. It additionally provides lines reviews, along with information on major inland waterways and best-rated river travel destinations around the world.

Below you can see destination-grouped lists of small cruise ships. All ship links (in the "Fleet" section) provide information on itineraries, prices, deck plans and cabins, general vessel details, a concise history, as well as live AIS current position ship tracking.

In this survey, we use all Silversea 's official YouTube video releases. Each of those is add-free and will give you a "real-life" review of the destination's highlights, and professionally presented information on the small cruising experience it provides.

Galapagos Islands

Most of the listed here ships are actually big yachts and all can be full-chartered.

• Celebrity Xploration
• Celebrity Xperience
• Celebrity Xpedition
• Celebrity Flora
• Encantada (yacht)
• Estrella del Mar
• MV Evolution (G10)
• Galapagos Aggressor II
• Galapagos Aggressor III
• Galapagos Grand Odyssey
• Galapagos Legend
• Galapagos Odyssey
• Galapagos Voyager
• National Geographic Endeavour
• National Geographic Endeavour 2
• National Geographic Islander
• Queen of Galapagos
• mv Santa Cruz 2
• Silver Galapagos
• Silver Origin
• Treasures of Galapagos (catamaran)

South America (Antarctica and Patagonia)

Among Antarctica's most popular itinerary destinations are Ushuaia , Cape Horn , Elephant Island , Paulet Island , Paradise Harbor. Longer itineraries also visit the Falkland Islands .

• Evangelistas
• Grigoriy Mikheev
• MV Hondius, MV Ortelius, MV Plancius
• Marina Svetaeva
• Ocean Adventurer, Ocean Diamond, Ocean Endeavour, Ocean Nova
• mv Polar Star
• Sea Explorer
• Silver Explorer
• Stella Australis, Ventus Australis

European and Russian Arctic

The Earth's Arctic region includes the Arctic Ocean and territories of 8 countries (Russia, Canada, USA, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland). Arctic expedition itineraries are operated almost year-round (excluding winter months).

• Russian icebreaker ships
• Akademik Shokalskiy
• Lyubov Orlova
• Professor Molchanov
• Professor Multanovsky
• MS Expedition
• MS Spitsbergen
• National Geographic Explorer
• Noorderlicht
• Ocean Diamond
• Ocean Endeavour
• Polar Pioneer
• Rembrandt van Rijn
• Sea Adventurer
• Sea Endurance
• Sarfaq Ittuk

Hawaii and Alaska

Among the most operated Alaskan small ship cruising destinations are Inside Passage, Glacier Bay , Skagway , Juneau , Seward , Sitka , Ketchikan (Revillagigedo Island) , Homer , Kodiak Island .

Hawaii small cruises visit the islands of Hawaii (ports Hilo and Kailua-Kona ), Kauai , Oahu , Maui (ports Kahului and Lahaina , and Kona. Most itineraries are roundtrips from Honolulu.

• Admiralty Dream
• Alaskan Dream
• American Spirit
• Baranof Dream
• Chichagof Dream
• MV Misty Fjord
• Kona Aggressor II
• Island Odyssey
• Island Roamer
• National Geographic Sea Bird
• National Geographic Sea Lion
• Safari Endeavour
• Safari Explorer
• Safari Quest
• Wilderness Adventurer
• Wilderness Discoverer
• Wilderness Explorer

Mediterranean Sea

Europe's Mediterranean is among the largest market for small ship travel. Featured destinations in this region are French Riviera, Italian Riviera, Greek Isles, Dalmatian Coast (Adriatic).

• Star Clippers ships
• Aegean Odyssey
• Aegean Paradise
• ms Berlin (FTI)
• Club Med 2 (sail ship)
• La Belle de l’Adriatique
• Royal Eleganza
• Serenissima
• Variety Voyager

The UK and Baltic Sea

Europe's Baltic region is most attractive for the opportunities to visit Russia and Scandinavia (Norway, Sweden, Finland). Among the world's most popular destinations here are Norwegian Fjords and St Petersburg. The UK (British Isles) itineraries visit ports in England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland. This region features over 6000 isles.

• Deutschland
• Hebridean Princess
• Hebridean Sky
• Lord of the Glens
• Sea Cloud 1, Sea Cloud 2

East Coast USA and Canada

New England is comprised of six US states along the Atlantic coast. Smaller ships here often sail on inland waterways as well.

• ACL-American Cruise Line fleet
• AQV-American Queen Voyages/AQSC fleet
• Grande Caribe, Grande Mariner

Caribbean and Bermuda

Caribbean small ship cruise itineraries visit popular island destinations, as well as mainland ports in Mexico, the USA, South America. Among the most visited destinations are the Bahamas, Grand Turk Island , Jamaica, Barbados , Grand Cayman Island , St Kitts Island , St Maarten Island , St Lucia Island, Aruba Island , Curacao Island , Roatan Island , US Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, also ports and inland waterways in Florida (USA).

• Belize Aggressor 3
• Cayman Aggressor 4
• Carib Dancer
• Diamant (schooner)
• MV Clio (Tere Moana)
• Okeanos Aggressor
• Sagitta (sail ship)
• Safari Voyager
• Sun Dancer II
• Turks and Caicos Aggressor 2
• Vela (sail ship)
• Wind Dancer

South Pacific, Australia, and New Zealand

The South Pacific Ocean as travel destination includes the archipelagos of Oceania (Melanesia, Micronesia, Polynesia), Australia and New Zealand. Among the most visited in this region are the islands of Fiji, Tahiti, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, New Caledonia, Solomon Islands, Tasmania, the Great Barrier Reef .

• Andaman Explorer
• Caledonian Sky
• Coral Expeditions 1
• Coral Expeditions 2
• Fiji Princess
• Island Dancer 2
• Island Passage
• Kimberley Quest 2
• National Geographic Orion
• Oceanic Discoverer
• Paul Gauguin
• Reef Endeavour
• Silver Discoverer
• Solway Lass
• Spirit of Enderby
• Wind Spirit (sail ship)

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Albatros Expeditions, a renowned figure in polar exploration and adventure voyages, has proudly declared the inauguration event of their latest...

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Small Boat Cruising in the Florida Keys

• By Bianca Dumas
• July 12, 2022

We were tied to the fuel dock in Marathon, the midpoint of the Florida Keys, in the early part of 2022, when I realized our mistake. 

Other cruisers traveling the Great Loop were on the loop’s southern stretch of the route, while some bluewater cruisers were starting to stage for passage to the Bahamas and beyond. I asked the dockmaster if any slips were available, and learned that it’s perpetually high season in the Keys, including at that moment. Along with cruisers and sailors, fish migrations change throughout the year, calm summer conditions attract divers, and festivals bring in the party crowds.

“We’re always booked out,” he said, shaking his head. Then he paused, perhaps realizing that he’d just sold us a total of 6 gallons of diesel. “Wait, what size is your sailboat?”

We were on Jackalope , a Nor’Sea 27. He shifted into a smile. “Oh yeah, we can probably squeeze you in down there,” he said, pointing to the inner harbor. 

We were grateful for the offer, but in the end, we stuck with our plan to anchor out. We had stayed on a dock—at Bahia Honda State Park—only once during our monthlong Keys cruise. While a lot of people on bigger boats doing the loop preferred marinas, anchoring out seemed to fit with our small-boat cruising style. We were basically camping, which required few amenities and created a lot of options. We took bucket baths when we couldn’t go ashore for showers. We cooked from simple ingredients that didn’t have to be refrigerated: lentils, rice and pasta. We paddled our inflatable kayak to shore for an occasional restaurant meal. 

We laughed when we were once mistaken for homeless people on a resupply walk, but how could we argue? We don’t have the same look as those who can blow-dry their hair and pull clothes off a hanger. 

But our small boat makes for a big adventure. We crossed the Gulf of Mexico from Fort Myers Beach directly to Key West, and because the 90-mile crossing took us three days and two nights, we had the experience of a much bigger, more challenging passage than other boats would. Our sails go up quickly and easily, so we take advantage of every quarter-hour of good wind that we can find.

Moving slow and low, we don’t fear crab pots; they’re easy to see and steer around, even in the dark. And since a keel-hung rudder protects our small propeller, hitting a crab-pot float head-on doesn’t cause trouble. At our top motoring speed of 4 knots, we can see dolphins, turtles and manatees before they dive for cover. 

We can’t avoid getting tan because we steer from an open center cockpit. Nor can we avoid getting exercise because we have to paddle ashore rather than motor. ( Jackalope ’s canoe stern means we don’t have a motorized dinghy on davits.) 

Like the mythical Western creature that shares its name, Jackalope has a small stature. Just right for us.

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12 Top Cruises on Small Ships

From wildlife viewing in the remote polar regions to magical sunsets in the Indian Ocean, these ships offer unforgettable voyages.

Al Bakker | Courtesy of Aurora Expeditions

Even if you're sailing in chilly Antarctica, cruising on a small ship offers comfort and coziness.

If you are feeling a sense of wanderlust and ready to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations in far-flung corners of the world, consider booking a small ship cruise. These luxury mega-yachts, expedition-style vessels and sailing ships can visit tucked-away harbors, exotic locales and pristine beaches that larger ships can't reach. And if you opt for a cruise on a rigged sailing vessel, there's nothing more romantic than watching the sun set into the ocean while the wind fills the sails of a tall ship at sea.

Smaller ships offer an intimate onboard vibe where the experience is highly personalized with a higher crew to passenger ratio – and where you'll get to know many of your fellow passengers. Smaller ships are often more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly than traditional cruise ships, using either wind power or the latest technologies. With the addition of new or existing cruise lines entering this market along with other lines investing in upgrading older ships, there are many more vessels in these smaller ship classes to choose from when considering your cruise options.

If you're seeking an adventure of a lifetime – whether to meet the penguins in Antarctica, people- and yacht watch in glamorous ports of call in the Mediterranean, or go island hopping in paradise in Hawaii – then plan your voyage to set sail on one of these small ships.

(Note: Some of the following activities, attractions and locations may be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. New policies may be in place, including capacity restrictions, reservation requirements or mask mandates. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of State and local tourism boards before traveling.)

Ready to plan a cruise? Find the best value sailings on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Star Clippers: Royal Clipper

Inspired by the legendary 1902 Preussen, the first five-masted ship, Royal Clipper was launched in 2000 as a true sailing vessel at 439 feet in length with 54,000 square feet of sails across 42 sails. With five fully rigged masts, the ship is recognized in Guinness World Records as the largest square rigger in service today.

Modeled after the historic clipper ships, Royal Clipper travels under full sail – and by wind power – for up to 80% of its voyages. When the vessel does navigate under power, the energy-efficient engines only use high-quality, low-sulfur gas oil, earning Star Clippers the International Air Pollution Prevention Certificate for all three of its clipper ships.

The ship can accommodate as many as 227 passengers in 114 staterooms, along with 106 crew. While on board, guests will enjoy 19,000 square feet of open teak deck, three swimming pools and hidden balconies on either side of the bow, where you can view wildlife like dolphins swimming alongside the ship. You can also relax in the bowsprit net overlooking the ocean and keeping an eye out for whales. For the more adventurous sailor, climbing the mast to 75 feet above the water affords unforgettable ocean views from your perch in one of the passenger crow's nests. Other features of Royal Clipper are its three-story atrium, trilevel dining room, and unique spa and health club with underwater portholes called the Captain Nemo Lounge.

The ship's seven-night Windward Islands itinerary sails round trip from Barbados with stops in Antigua , Martinique , St. Kitts, Îles Des Saintes and St. Lucia. You'll even have an opportunity to sail alongside one of the line's sister ships and another tall ship – Star Flyer – to the island of Dominica . Royal Clipper's longer itineraries include several Grand Voyages: The 19-night cruise from Cannes in France to Lisbon in Portugal, for example, calls on other ports in France, Italy, Spain, Gibraltar and Morocco.

Read: Cruise Essentials for Your Next Trip

Silversea Cruises: Silver Wind

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Launched in 1995, Silver Wind was Silversea's second of four vessels that the line built for the ultra-luxury market. This ship underwent a significant upgrade in 2018, followed by another refurbishment in 2021 that included an enhanced ice-class hull. This new addition allows Silver Wind to be one of the most adaptable ships in the fleet, sailing from the polar regions like Antarctica to sunny island climates in the Caribbean and cruising picturesque shorelines along the Mediterranean Sea.

Silver Wind measures about 515 feet in length and has 149 all ocean-view suites, more than 80% of which boast a private veranda. The ship carries 274 guests and 239 crew and features elegant public rooms, including lounges for gazing out at the ocean or watching onboard entertainment. There's also an upscale bar, shipboard boutiques and a spa.

Dining is a highlight, with four venues spanning international cuisine such as Italian, regional specialties and seasonally inspired menus. For an evening under the stars, The Grill features fine steaks and seafood or vegetables that guests can cook at the table on 400 degrees Celsius lava stones. After dinner, spend time chatting with fellow passengers at Connoisseur's Corner, where you can sip cognac and enjoy a cigar.

Silver Wind offers an epic 20-night expedition cruise from Tromsø, Norway, to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, visiting various destinations in Iceland as well as remote regions and glaciers in Greenland. For a warmer voyage, the 10-night Puntarenas to Guayaquil itinerary takes you from Costa Rica to Ecuador in South America, with stops at the remote Darien Jungle in Panama, the Utría National Natural Park in Colombia and several ports in Ecuador, including the city of Guayaquil.

Want to cruise a small ship on Silversea Cruises? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Sea Cloud Cruises: Sea Cloud

Courtesy of Sea Cloud Cruises

Built in 1931 as a private yacht for Wall Street broker Edward Francis Hutton and his wife Marjorie Merriweather Post, an American socialite and philanthropist, this legendary windjammer maintains the elegance of a time gone by.

Originally named Hussar, the 360-foot Sea Cloud has a fascinating history – while the ship started as a private yacht, it later became a floating palace of diplomacy and then a warship. Today, Sea Cloud accommodates up to 64 passengers in 32 outside cabins and carries about 60 crew. The ship also boasts 29 sails, with the height of the main mast towering 184 feet above the water.

If you've never been on this type of vessel, cruising under full sail on a tall ship is unlike any other experience. Sea Cloud does not rely on motors (though they are installed just in case), allowing the wind and sea to determine the ship's course whenever possible, guided by the skills and seamanship of the crew for navigation. This setup provides an opportunity to teach the art of sailing to the passengers. The captain of Sea Cloud and guests prefer to cruise under full sail, which is the lure of sailing on a windjammer. Life on board the ship is intimate and relaxed – just as you would find on a private yacht.

Amenities on Sea Cloud include a lido bar and deck and a restaurant serving cuisine inspired by the destination, which features local products, fresh fish and regional wines.

One of Sea Cloud's top itineraries, Between Lifestyles and Nature's Paradises, sails for seven nights from Monte Carlo, Monaco , to the Spanish island of Palma de Mallorca , with calls on less visited ports along the Mediterranean coast in southern France like La Ciotat and Collioure. You can also join the jet-setters in St. Barts with a front-row seat from your sailing ship for the Bucket Regatta. This 10-night adventure includes two days in the French West Indies island of St. Barts and other picturesque ports of call in the Caribbean.

Read: The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Atlas Ocean Voyages: World Navigator

Courtesy of Atlas Ocean Voyages

Atlas Ocean Voyages' first luxury expedition ship, World Navigator, launched in August 2021. With a length of 423 feet and capacity for 196 passengers and 127 crew, the ship sails to fascinating destinations around the world. By optimizing fuel efficiency with the incorporation of the latest hybrid power management and propulsion system, World Navigator uses as little as one-fifth of the fuel of standard cruise ship systems. The quiet alternate hydro-jet propulsion system allows for up-close viewing of marine animals and other wildlife.

The 98 beautifully appointed staterooms and suites feature upscale amenities like Egyptian linens and a menu to personalize your selection of a pillow. Some accommodations also have Juliet-style or walk-out balconies, and certain suites come with butler service. For dining options, you'll find Portuguese-inspired Porto, which is the main dining room, or the New York-style 7-Aft Grill for steaks and seafood. Passengers can also opt to have lunch poolside or enjoy light bites at the Dome Observation Lounge, which offers panoramic views of the sea.

Other ship amenities include three bars and lounges, the SeaSpa by L'Occitane, an auditorium, a mud room, a pool and two hot tubs, a boutique and a fitness center. To wind down after a day of exploring destinations in far corners of the globe, convene with other passengers to relive the experience during Àpres Sea.

For the ultimate bucket list adventure, book the nine-night round-trip expedition from Ushuaia, Argentina, to the southernmost continent. Highlights of this venture to Antarctica include navigating the Drake Passage; embarking on water safaris to Deception Island or Yankee Harbour; encountering wildlife like penguins, seals and whales; and even camping on land overnight. For a less adventurous itinerary, history enthusiasts will appreciate the 12-night Western Europe voyage sailing from Hamburg in Germany to London , with an overnight in Amsterdam and ports of call in cities like Antwerp and Bruges , Belgium; Plymouth, U.K.; and Honfleur, France.

Read: The Top Cruise Lines for Solo Travelers

Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity Flora

This 100-passenger luxury mega-yacht is the first ship of its kind built for the Galápagos Islands . Launched in 2019, Celebrity Flora is 333 feet long and features 50 spacious all-suite accommodations, each designed with a veranda or an infinite veranda that extends the terrace to be part of the living space. Each suite is fully automated, allowing guests to control everything with the touch of a button. Amenities include luxurious linens and bathrobes, and you'll enjoy chocolates and toiletries locally sourced from Ecuador. The ship is also eco-friendly and built with the latest environmental technologies.

There are two dining venues on board Celebrity Flora. Seaside Restaurant offers an upscale casual experience with floor-to-ceiling windows throughout. For alfresco dining in the evening, Ocean Grill serves local, sustainable seafood during "Dinner Under the Stars." Other inviting indoor spaces include the Discovery Lounge, where Celebrity's naturalists host briefings and presentations, and the Observatory, a library and lounge with a view.

Outside, The Vista offers guests an open-air escape with private cabanas, cocoon-style loungers and a Jacuzzi. Cruisers can head to the outdoor Sunset Lounge for a dip in the plunge pool or experience Galápagos Glamping on the top deck with an evening of dining and sleeping under one of the most spectacular night skies in the world.

Celebrity Flora sails seven-night inner- and outer-loop Galápagos itineraries and has extended trips with land packages that add on Quito or Machu Picchu . The 16-night Galápagos Outer Loop & Machu Picchu itinerary includes island hopping in the Galápagos, where you'll have up-close encounters with giant tortoises, marine iguanas, Galápagos penguins, red- and blue-footed boobies, and sea lions. Afterward, head to Lima, Peru , where you'll fly to Cusco and venture onward to visit the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.

Looking to plan a small ship cruise on Celebrity Cruises? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Windstar Cruises: Wind Star

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Windstar Cruises

When it first launched in Le Havre, France, in November 1985, Wind Star was the world's largest sailing vessel and the flagship for the line. While this schooner may not be the largest tall ship on the seas today, Wind Star is an elegant four-masted sailing yacht and the cruise line's namesake. Since its launch, this ship has been through a few renovations, with the most recent one in 2018. The 360-foot vessel features 73 deluxe ocean-view staterooms that accommodate 148 passengers, and it can carry 101 crew. Four masts stand at 204 feet tall, and six triangular Dacron sails, which are self-furling and computerized, make up a surface area of 21,500 square feet.

As with other Windstar vessels, you'll find the same casual elegance on board this sailing ship. Guests will get to sail away to the music Windstar traditionally plays while raising the flag during every port departure – Vangelis' song "1492: Conquest of Paradise," which is the musical score to the movie of the same name. The culinary program on Windstar's fleet is in partnership with the James Beard Foundation, so dining is a real treat. The three restaurant venues on Wind Star include Amphora, whose contemporary, international menu was created by James Beard-affiliated chefs. The romantic Candles offers an alfresco dining experience with grilled steaks and skewers, while the Veranda is the ship's casual breakfast and lunch buffet with outdoor seating.

Other onboard amenities include a lounge, the Yacht Club Café, a pool bar, a salon and spa, a boutique, a library, a fitness center, a water sports platform and an open bridge where you can enjoy a chat over coffee with the captain.

Treasures of the Greek Isles is a seven-night voyage that sails round trip from Athens to several Greek islands, including Mykonos and Santorini . This itinerary also includes a stop in Kusadasi, Turkey, where you'll be able to visit the fascinating ancient city of Ephesus. For a South America adventure to transit the Panama Canal and explore destinations in the region like rainforests, reserve the seven-night Costa Rica & Panama Canal voyage.

Read: Bucket List Cruises for Seniors and Retirees

Viking Cruises: Viking Octantis

Courtesy of Viking

Built in 2022, Viking's new Polar Class 6 ship, Viking Octantis, is 665 feet in length and accommodates 378 guests in 189 staterooms and 256 crew. The purpose-built expedition ship boasts more indoor and outdoor viewing areas than many other expedition vessels, providing guests with up-close views of some of the most incredible scenery in the world. The energy-efficient design of this ship and the line's other expedition vessel, Viking Polaris, exceeds the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) requirements by 36%. The cruise line is also recognized for receiving one of the first highest-level certifications for quiet ship propulsion, minimizing underwater noise pollution.

Cruisers familiar with Viking Ocean Cruises' ships will recognize familiar spaces and dining venues such as The Living Room, The Explorers' Lounge, The Nordic Spa, Manfredi's, The Restaurant and The World Cafe. New spaces on Viking Octantis include The Aula, a panoramic auditorium designed for lectures and daily briefings, and the adjacent Finse Terrace. This outdoor lounge area sits just above sea level and boasts recessed, heated couches and lava rock "fire pits." Passengers will also find the industry-first in-ship marina, The Hangar, where guests can easily embark and disembark the ship, and three pools offering varying temperatures with an inside-outside passage. In addition, all staterooms feature Nordic balconies that convert from a sunroom to an alfresco viewing area.

For a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, book the 12-night Antarctic itinerary sailing from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, Argentina. This expedition includes the Drake "rite of" Passage, scenic sailing around Cape Horn and wildlife viewing in the icy waters of the "White Continent." For U.S. travelers interested in staying closer to home, the seven-night Great Lakes Explorer departs Milwaukee for Thunder Bay in Ontario, Canada. Cruisers will enjoy a stop in Mackinac Island in Michigan, scenic sailing along the St. Mary's River and transit from the U.S. into Canada through the Soo Locks.

Want to plan a Viking Expedition Cruise? See top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Emerald Cruises: Emerald Azzurra

Emerald Cruises' luxurious 360-foot superyacht, Emerald Azzurra, launched in May 2022. The boutique ship carries just 100 passengers and is designed for cruising the waters of the Mediterranean, Adriatic Coast and the Red Sea. Its sister ship, Emerald Sakara, will debut in 2023. On board Emerald Azzurra, you can expect to be pampered by 68 crew members while soaking in the sun poolside or relaxing indoors during a day at sea.

The 50 spacious modern staterooms and suites, most with balconies, offer spectacular views of off-the-beaten-path destinations and smaller ports and harbors. The ship also features several dining, bar and lounge venues; quiet spaces for relaxing or reading a book; a wellness area; a hot tub with a view and an infinity-style pool; a boutique; and a fitness center. The marina platform on the ship's stern offers paddleboarding, snorkeling and other water sports activities.

The seven-night Gems of the Arabian Peninsula sails from Doha, Qatar, to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. This cruise calls on Sir Bani Yas Island and Abu Dhabi , United Arab Emirates, as well as two ports in the country of Oman. For unforgettable ocean and island views and a vacation in paradise, book the seven-night Tropical Charms of the Seychelles, sailing round trip from Victoria, Mahé , which is the capital of the Seychelles .

Lindblad Expeditions: National Geographic Endurance

Alexandra Daley-Clark | Courtesy of Lindblad Expeditions

Launched in July 2021 as one of two new polar vessels and a sister ship to National Geographic Resolution (November 2021), this extraordinary vessel can explore deeper and further into the Earth's polar regions. National Geographic Endurance is the first new polar build in the company's 50-year history, and its name honors the ship of renowned Antarctic explorer Ernest Shackleton. The elegant Scandinavian-inspired design also features the patented X-Bow, offering eco-friendly benefits and a smoother, quieter ride.

National Geographic Endurance is 407 feet in length and has 69 spacious staterooms with large windows or balconies to accommodate up to 126 passengers. The ship also carries 112 crew. Unique onboard amenities include the first polar art exhibit at sea, curated by environmental artist Zaria Forman, and the first igloos at sea. Guests can arrange to spend an evening under the stars in these glass domes, which are available to reserve on a first-come, first-served basis.

Passengers can also enjoy one complimentary evening at the Chef's Table, sustainable cuisine during their voyage, a lounge and bar area, outdoor infinity-style hot tubs, a yoga studio, saunas with a view of the sea, and state-of-the-art facilities for presentations and films. Every expedition also has a National Geographic photographer and a certified photo instructor and video chronicler.

For an unforgettable rendezvous with nature, book a 10-night cruise called Land of the Ice Bears. This adventure sails to the best place in the world to view polar bears: the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard in the Arctic Ocean. In addition to many opportunities to see those amazing animals, you'll also encounter walruses, reindeer, arctic foxes and fur seals. Another incredible journey for the extreme adventurer is the 35-day Epic Antarctica sailing. This expedition will venture to remote West Antarctica and explore the sub-Antarctic islands of New Zealand and Australia, traveling to destinations where possibly few – or even no – humans have set foot before.

UnCruise Adventures: Safari Explorer

Courtesy of UnCruise Adventures

Built in 1998, Safari Explorer is 145 feet in length and one of UnCruise Adventures' four Safari-class ships in its expedition-style fleet. Nicknamed "the Bulldog," this ship transports passengers to wild and remote areas that larger ships can't navigate. The 36-passenger yacht was recently renovated with interior refinishes, touch-ups and upgrades. There are just 18 cabins and 18 crew.

The lifestyle is casual on board, and guests have access to three decks with a library, dining room, rooftop sun lounge and exercise equipment. You'll find common areas on the main deck such as the salon, bar and wine bar. When it's time to hit the water or go ashore, the vessel is equipped with expedition gear, including kayaks, inflatable skiffs, paddleboards, snorkel equipment and more.

In the summer months, Safari Explorer sets off in search of humpback whales in Alaska and spends winters island hopping in Hawaii. The seven-night Hawaiian Seascapes sailing cruises to four islands, including stops in Molokai, Lanai , Maui and the Big Island of Hawaii . There are two itineraries in Alaska. The seven-night Alaska Glacier Cruise itinerary sails one way from Juneau to Sitka through the northern passages. For an extended expedition that includes wilderness areas with even more opportunities for wildlife and whale viewing, book the 12-night Cruise to Alaska voyage from Seattle to Juneau.

Read: The Best Times to Cruise to Alaska

Ponant: Le Commandant Charcot

Ponant's first high polar expedition vessel, Le Commandant Charcot, launched in September 2021. The 492-foot-long ship is eco-friendly and powered by liquefied natural gas with the latest innovations and technologies. Le Commandant Charcot is also the first luxury hybrid electric polar exploration vessel.

All of the 123 staterooms and suites have a private balcony or terrace. The atmosphere for the 245 passengers on board is much like that of a private yacht, given an extraordinary ratio of passengers to crew with 215 crew members. Two culinary options, gastronomic restaurant Nuna and casual dining concept Sila, are part of a collaboration with Ducasse Conseil and Michelin-starred chef Alain Ducasse; the menus are designed by the renowned French chef. Guests can enjoy complimentary French wine, Veuve Clicquot Champagne and Ladurée macarons throughout their voyage.

You'll also find beautiful public spaces, a boutique, a theater, expedition rooms and a promenade deck where you can access the bow. Not to be missed is the wellness area, which is a partnership with Biologique Recherche and features amenities like a 14 degrees Fahrenheit snow room with fresh powder snow, a sauna and an indoor pool. On the pool deck, passengers can enjoy a sunroom, a heated outdoor blue lagoon, a giant fire pit, an outdoor bar and the Blue Lagoon bar.

Le Commandant Charcot sails to the farthest points in the Northern and Southern hemispheres, including Antarctica and the North Pole. The 24-night Northwest Passage cruise takes guests from Reykjavik in Iceland to Nome, Alaska, and features polar activities like kayaking between the ice floes, snowshoeing, ice fishing or even exploring with a naturalist guide by hovercraft. The 15-night Geographic North Pole expedition sailing from Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen, in Norway pushes the limit of sailing to the northernmost point in the world. Le Commandant Charcot is the only passenger ship able to reach the geographic North Pole.

Read: The Top Luxury Alaska Cruises

Aurora Expeditions: Greg Mortimer

Matt Horspool | Courtesy of Aurora Expeditions

Australian-owned Greg Mortimer is a 341-foot-long purpose-built expedition ship, and the first passenger ship designed with the Ulstein X-Bow. This state-of-the-art design offers environmental benefits such as producing fewer emissions and requiring less fuel. The unique bow design also provides a smoother cruise experience when crossing rough seas like the Drake Passage en route to Antarctica. In addition, the ship's Rolls Royce dynamic stabilizers contribute to the vessel's stability and lower its fuel consumption.

The vessel was built in 2019, features 79 cabins with ocean views – 85% of which have balconies – and can accommodate an average of 132 passengers and 74 crew. Onboard amenities include bars and lounges, the main dining room, lecture facilities, a library, a mudroom to store wet expedition gear, a spa, a sauna and a gym. The ship also has hydraulic viewing platforms offering unobstructed views of the local marine and wildlife, as well as 15 Zodiac boats that launch from four platforms.

With Greg Mortimer and its new sister ship, Sylvia Earle, Aurora Expeditions travels to wild and remote destinations around the world. Popular itineraries include its nine- to 23-day Antarctica voyages, navigating icy waters on the 17-day Northwest Passage expedition from Canada or on the 11-day Iceland Circumnavigation cruise, which sails round trip from Reykjavik.

Want to explore cruise options? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

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9 of the best small ship cruises to the Caribbean

Published 2nd August 2023 in Cruise Advice By Claire Benktander /cruise-news/cruise-advice/best-small-ship-cruises-caribbean

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The Caribbean is one of the world's most appealing cruising destinations, renowned for its gorgeous beaches, balmy temperatures and easy-going island culture. Discover the tiny islands and secluded beaches that the big ships can't reach with our pick of the best small ship cruises to the Caribbean.

Yet we often hear people writing the Caribbean off, lumping all of the islands together based on bad past experiences or some horror story they've heard from a friend. As with so many preconceptions about cruising, this negative view of the Caribbean tends to come from the world of mainstream megaships.

The big ships are restricted to busy, overdeveloped islands where going ashore means running a gauntlet of hassle from street vendors, touts and taxi drivers. Often the main attractions are duty free shopping malls, and the chances of experiencing an authentic slice of Caribbean culture are minimal. Some of the big cruise lines even stop at their own private islands, a sanitised pastiche of the Caribbean that we find rather depressing.

A small ship cruise around the Caribbean is a completely different experience, allowing you to visit the smaller islands and secluded bays that the bigger ships can't reach. On sleepy islands like Bequia and Tobago you'll encounter none of the hassle that plagues the more mainstream islands, and you'll find idyllic beaches and lush rainforests still largely unsullied by mass tourism. Island-hopping around the Caribbean by small ship is a fantastic way to explore the region, giving you a taste of several different islands and their surprising diversity, from the natural wilderness of Dominica to the classic cars and communist murals of Cuba.

The most convenient Caribbean gateway for UK cruisers is Barbados, with regular direct flights from both Gatwick and Manchester. You can also fly direct to Miami and Fort Lauderdale, both of which serve as turnaround ports for many Caribbean cruises, though you will of course have to contend with the joys of US immigration. Other popular turnaround ports include San Juan (Puerto Rico) and Philipsburg (St Maarten), convenient for the US market but less so for the UK, with no direct flights. There are also occasional cruises departing from St Lucia, Antigua or Jamaica, as well as longer itineraries that visit the Caribbean en route to Central and South America.

Cruise ships generally head to the Caribbean as winter descends on Europe and North America, with high season running from December through to February. Temperatures rise and rain becomes more likely as you head towards the summer months, though downpours tend to be short and sharp. Hurricane season officially runs from 1 June to 30 November, and the peak usually comes in August and September, by which time you're unlikely to find many cruise ships in the Caribbean.

There is a huge amount of choice when it comes to ships, routings and ports of call, so here is our guide to eight of the best small ship cruise lines visiting the Caribbean:

1. SeaDream Yacht Club

SeaDream's laid-back, al fresco style is perfectly suited to tropical latitudes, and both of their 112-guest yachts winter in the Caribbean. Itineraries include Bridgetown round-trips focusing on the stunning Grenadines, a particularly attractive option for UK travellers, and cruises around the Virgin Islands from San Juan or St Thomas.

2. Windstar Cruises

Windstar's fleet of six small ships includes three sail-assisted yachts and three all-suite former Seabourn ships, giving you two different ways to cruise the Caribbean. Their 14-night Star Collector voyages out of Barbados are a great option if you're looking for a longer trip, and Windstar also have a handful of itineraries visiting the so-called 'ABC Islands' of Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao.

3. Seabourn

Seabourn are another good choice for those seeking a more in-depth exploration of the Caribbean, with 14-night round-trip voyages from both Barbados and St Martin. Their fleet of seven ships is the most modern of all the ultra-luxury lines, with a refined yet relaxed ambience on board that is perfectly suited to cruising the Caribbean.

4. Silversea

Silversea's classic fleet, ranging in size from 298 to 728 guests, offers a number of Caribbean options, including a handful of Barbados round-trips. There are also various itineraries embarking or disembarking in Fort Lauderdale, and Silversea have some interesting voyages combining the islands of the Caribbean with either Bermuda or Central America.

The stylish yachts of French cruise line Ponant are a great choice for something a bit different. As you might expect , the French Caribbean features prominently in their programme, with unusual turnaround ports including the island of Martinique and Cayenne, capital of French Guiana. Their itineraries range from classic Caribbean routes to expedition-style voyages exploring Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula and the amazing dive sites of Belize.

6. Sea Cloud Cruises

The majestic tall ships of Sea Cloud offer a very different cruising experience, marrying the romance of travelling under sail with high standards of service on board. Watching the crew hoisting the sails by hand is a remarkable spectacle, and you'll be the envy of other cruisers as you set sail from ports including Bridgetown, Santo Domingo and Havana.

7. Star Clippers

Star Clippers is a more affordable option for tall ship enthusiasts, with the five-masted Royal Clipper and four-masted Star Flyer both wintering in the Caribbean. Royal Clipper focuses on the Grenadines and Windward Islands and operates out of Barbados, making it the most popular option for UK cruisers. Star Flyer is based in St Martin, visiting islands including Anguilla, St Barths and the British Virgin Islands.

8. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

Just launched, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is an exciting new cruise line that promises to bring the Ritz-Carlton brand of luxury to the oceans for the first time. Three super-stylish yachts are perfectly suited to cruising in the sun-kissed Caribbean - the first, 298-guest Evrima, offers Bridgetown and San Juan round-trips between December to March, 456-guest Ilma and Luminara will arrive in 2024 and 2025 respectively.

9. Emerald Yacht Collection

Emerald Azzurra and Sakara are the first ships in the Emerald yacht fleet, carrying just 100 lucky travellers in sleek and stylish surroundings with a marina at the back of the yachts, allowing you to hop straight into the Caribbean waters with a host of water toys. Voyages between November and April include St John's round trips that visit Martinique, the Grenadines and St Lucia, as well as sailings to and from San Juan that call in at Saint Kitts and Nevis, the U.S. and British Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and glamorous St Barths. There are also longer two-week voyages encompassing both the above regions, including round-trip Barbados sailings.

Claire is Marketing Manager at Mundy Cruising, having worked with the company for nearly a year and in travel for over 8 years. Most recently she's cruised on Seabourn and has also sailed with Ponant and Uniworld. Her favourite destination is Sweden however she's also enjoyed cruises in the the Galapagos, Mediterranean, Caribbean, Northern Europe, Greek Isles and the Far East. When she’s not travelling she loves weekends away in the countryside.

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A small cruise ship is coming to key west.

Just when you thought it was safe to go back into city commission meetings….

The term “cruise ship” appears again on an agenda.

That’s right. One of Key West’s most enduring and amplified arguments over cruise ships — their size and impact, both economic and environmental — threatened on Sept. 14 once again to pack city hall with people on both sides of the ship spectrum.

But then something astonishing happened. The mayor, commissioners, city attorney and representatives from the Key West Committee for Safer Cleaner Ships, which led the charge against cruise ships, agreed that a small ship, operated by American Cruise Lines, should be welcome to dock at Mallory Square.

Charlie Robertson, CEO of the Connecticut-based American Cruise Lines, addressed the commission during a presentation that included no formal vote, but met with enthusiasm from lawmakers.

American Cruise Lines Inc. bills itself as a “boutique cruise company” that operates 17 small, U.S.-flagged cruise ships along the Eastern Seaboard and Western Seaboard as well as along the Mississippi River. The company’s fleet visits 35 states and it wants to bring one of its 241-foot-long ships to Key West’s Mallory dock for a total of 25 visits between December 2023 and December 2024. 

“We have never come to Key West before because it’s been dominated by the large-ship market,” Robertson told the commission. “When this body passed its cruise ship resolutions for Key West, we saw an opportunity for more boutique products like ours.”

Because ACL’s ships don’t venture beyond the United States, “our ships can be smaller without the need for oceangoing capability,” Robertson said, adding that the company also has much shorter runs between ports of call, which enables the company to stay longer in each place and offer more in-depth experiences to its customers, most of whom are retired.

Once finalized, the Key West visit would include options such as: 

• Truman’s VIP White Glove Experience at the Little White House.
• Hemingway Rum Distillery and Rodriguez Cigar Rolling Experience.
• Key West Literary Seminar Walking Tour.
• Unity Table Culinary Experience at Williams Hall.
• Dry Tortugas by Seaplane ( possible half day excursion, pending overnight docking approval ).
• Key West Ghost Tour at Fort East Martello ( pending overnight docking approva l).

“Our clients aren’t going to be the ones down on Duval Street all night,” Robertson said. “They’re a more mature clientele, mostly retired and with the means to enjoy one of our cruises.”

Commissioner Sam Kaufman also encouraged Robertson to meet with the city’s charter fishing boats, as the longer port of call would enable cruise ship passengers ample time to book a half- or full-day fishing charter.

The charter boats have never typically benefited from cruise ships, because they’re not here long enough, but this sounds like an opportunity to offer that experience, Kaufman said. And Robertson agreed. 

A seven-night cruise that would include Key West costs about $5,000 per person, Robertson said, adding that ACL’s cruise prices are all-inclusive of alcohol, meals and many excursions. 

The ship carries 109 guests and 50 crew, Robertson said, also hoping for formal permission to stay in port overnight for a total of 34 hours. 

Robertson acknowledged the city’s rule against ships blocking the sunset view at Mallory Square, but added that because ACL’s ships are all U.S.-flagged, there is no immigration or customs requirements whenever it leaves the dock, meaning the ship will easily pull away from the dock at Mallory for about an hour during sunset and thus won’t affect the view or the nightly Sunset Celebration.

With the mayor and commissions offering informal support for ACL’s proposal, Mayor Teri Johnston asked Arlo Haskell, treasurer of Safer Cleaner Ships, to offer his group’s opinion.

“The city’s one-ship policy that allows just one ship per day defines cruise ships at a much larger threshold than ACL’s ships,” Haskell said. “These ships are smaller than what anyone in Key West thinks of a cruise ship.”

He added that ACL ships are a quarter of the length and a quarter of the height of typical ships, which have 30 times more passenger and crew capacity..

“And most importantly, for our environmental impact concerns, these ships have a 7-foot draft, which is again a quarter of what we see with the larger ships at Pier B that have a 25- to 28-foot draft. So essentially, we have no objections to ACL’s proposal,” Haskell said.

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